SFA confirm appointment of experienced referee for Celtic’s trip to Pittodrie | OneFootball

The SFA have confirmed the appointment of experienced referee John Beaton for Celtic’s trip to Pittodrie. The Scottish Champions travel to the North East to face Aberdeen as they look to exact revenge after the Scottish Cup Final in May.

Beaton takes charge with David McGeachie and Graeme Stewart assisting.

Meanwhile at Clydesdale House, Andrew Dallas is on VAR and he is assisted by Alan Mulvanny.

Beaton last took charge of Celtic in April with Brendan Rodgers’ side dismantling Killie 5-1 and before that it was the February meeting against Jimmy Thelin’s side at Celtic Park; which also ended in a 5-1 win for Celtic.

Beaton is one of the SFA’s top referees and has recently been away on UEFA duties. Trips to Pittodrie are often difficult afternoons given the conditions but in the early part of the season, the pitch should be in a good state – meaning that Celtic can get the ball moving quickly. The Dons showcased that they’re willing to be overly physical to disrupt Celtic and it’s important that the referee affords the Champions protection from this.

Celtic managed to get across the line on the opening weekend in the defence of the Scottish Premiership with a late strike from Luke McCowan sealing the points. Celtic were aggrieved not to take the lead earlier through Callum McGregor, who was penalised for a handball but replays didn’t appear all that conclusive as to where the ball struck the skipper at close proximity.