Expert Calls for John Beaton’s Dismissal Over Controversial Rangers VAR Blunder
In a recent controversial match, Livingston manager David Martindale expressed serious concerns regarding the officiating decisions made during the game against Rangers. The incident in question involved a penalty claim after Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez blocked a shot by Tete Yengi with his arm, while the score was tied at 1-1.
Call for John Beaton’s Dismissal
High-profile figures in football, including ex-footballer Jay Bothroyd, have called for the dismissal of referee John Beaton. Bothroyd, speaking on Sky Sports Ref Watch, criticized the decision not to review the penalty claim. He stated, “That can cost manager’s their job… That is outrageously bad.” Bothroyd emphasized the importance of accountability, suggesting that officials who make poor decisions should face consequences similar to managers.
SFA’s Response and Official Guidance
The Scottish Football Association (SFA) clarified the rationale behind the decision. They indicated that the guidance for referees focused on shot proximity and described Fernandez’s arm positioning as natural for his movement. Ultimately, the VAR room, overseen by Beaton, chose not to intervene in the situation.
- Date of Incident: November 24, 2025
- Match Outcome: Rangers vs. Livingston, Score 1-1
- Key Figures:
- David Martindale – Manager, Livingston
- Jay Bothroyd – Former Cardiff City and Wolves striker
- John Beaton – VAR Official
Impact on Livingston
Martindale’s frustration was palpable after the match. He expressed concern that the controversial decisions could jeopardize his position as manager, especially with Livingston currently at the bottom of the Scottish Premiership standings. This situation highlights the critical nature of officiating in football and how it can affect careers.
Closing Remarks
The fallout from this incident continues to resonate within the football community. Calls for accountability in officiating are growing stronger, and many believe that the decisions made during high-stakes matches have repercussions that extend beyond the pitch.
