SPL fixtures given go-ahead

This weekend’s six Scottish Premier League fixtures will go ahead as planned despite an ongoing strike by the competition’s referees.

Scottish referees announced a strike on Sunday for what they believe to be unfair treatment from players and fans alike, and a lack of support from the Scottish FA.

The SPL hired referees from Poland, Portugal and Israel to fill the short-fall, but after the Polish FA withdrew their officials earlier on Friday, the weekend’s matches were thrown into disarray.

But the SPL confirmed on Friday that the weekend’s fixtures, which start on Saturday, will go ahead as scheduled.

“All six Clydesdale Bank Premier League fixtures across Saturday and Sunday will be played as scheduled despite confirmation from the Scottish FA that the weekend of strike action by Scottish Category 1 referees will go ahead,” an SPL statement read.

“The Scottish FA has acted quickly to put contingency plans in place,” SPL chief Neil Doncaster said.

“FIFA listed or Category 1 match officials from overseas will take charge of all Clydesdale Bank Premier League games this weekend. The SPL fully supports these plans.”

Doncaster bemoaned the fact Scottish referees will not officiate games this weekend but insists they have not voiced their concerns in the right manner.

“It is deeply regrettable that Scottish match officials will not be taking charge of Clydesdale Bank Premier League games this weekend.”

“The SPL is sympathetic towards referees and the criticism they have received in recent weeks but the way to address concerns is through dialogue, not to walk away from the situation.”

SPL leaders Rangers have a tricky away clash to Dundee United on Sunday, while second-placed Celtic face Inverness at Parkhead on Saturday.