Rangers supporters have long been skeptical of the refereeing standards in Scotland, but the latest appointment for the upcoming trip to Tynecastle has many feeling the writing is already on the wall for Philippe Clement’s side.
The Scottish FA confirmed on Tuesday (28 April) that John Beaton will be the man in the middle when the Gers travel to face Hearts on Monday night. It is a fixture that has massive implications for the title race, and following Rangers’ shock home defeat to Motherwell, the pressure is at a breaking point.
With Hearts currently leading the Scottish Premiership and looking to secure their first league title in over six decades, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Should Rangers lose at Gorgie, they could find themselves seven points adrift with the season rapidly reaching its conclusion.
John Beaton back in the spotlight
For many of the Ibrox faithful, the name John Beaton brings back memories of inconsistent decision-making and VAR controversy. While Beaton is one of the country’s most experienced officials, his history in high-pressure Rangers games has often been a point of contention.
Beaton will be assisted by David McGeachie and Jonathan Bell, with Andrew Dallas taking charge of the VAR room. The inclusion of Dallas has also raised eyebrows among supporters who feel that the technology has hindered more than helped the Light Blues this campaign.
Season on the line
Philippe Clement knows that anything less than a victory against the league leaders will effectively end Rangers’ hopes of silverware this season. The Belgian manager has cut a frustrated figure on the touchline in recent weeks as his side has struggled for rhythm and clinical finishing.
The atmosphere at Tynecastle is always hostile, but with a title potentially in sight for the Edinburgh side, it will be a cauldron on Monday. If the officiating becomes the story rather than the football, Rangers fans might as well call the season off early and start looking toward the summer rebuild.
Rangers have a decent record at Tynecastle in recent years, but with a referee appointment that has already sparked debate, the psychological hurdle may be just as big as the tactical one.
