SFA launches investigation
The Scottish Football Association today launched an investigation into the recent Edinburgh derby coin-throwing incident after receiving referee John Rowbotham’s report.
The official escaped serious injury having been struck by the missile just moments after Hibernian’s late winner, and it has been suggested Hearts could again find themselves in trouble.
But because the culprit has yet to be established, the SFA will be asking the capital’s two top sides for their comments on the incident before deciding what action to take.
Drew Herbertson, head of discipline and referees, said: “The report has come in over the weekend and we will now be writing to both clubs involved for their comments.
“The coin-throwing incident has been mentioned in the report and it’s a worrying problem coming back into the game.
“It’s still not been established who threw the coins because of the location of the incident.”
Hibernian skipper Ian Murray has been accused by police of shouting and swearing at Hearts fans during the game but the incident was “not contained” in the referee’s report.
Hearts are still coming to terms with the £5,000 (€7,300) fine imposed on Friday for questioning the integrity of referee Hugh Dallas and assistant Andy Davis after Rangers were awarded a controversial Tynecastle penalty in March.
It has been an eventful season for Hearts and their directors are contemplating an appeal against the punishment.
