CELTIC MANAGER Neil Lennon has appealed for calm over the “desperate” reaction towards the officials at Sunday’s Old Firm derby, despite appearing to stoke up tensions by once again writing to the Scottish FA to complain about a refereeing performance.

The fall-out from Sunday’s 3-1 defeat to Rangers has also saw the home of Celtic and Republic of Ireland striker Anthony Stokes attacked on Sunday evening while he and members of his family were inside.

Willie Collum, who took charge of the game at Parkhead on Sunday, later received a series of threatening phonecalls at his home. Collum had controversially awarded Rangers a penalty, which led to their third goal.

Celtic have contacted the SFA for the second time in a week to air concerns about Collum’s display.

Lennon, though, disputes that such actions have fanned antagonism towards officials. “I don’t think it was a penalty and I think the majority of people agreed with me on that,” Lennon said. “It’s not me who is making a big issue of referees. But if I feel a controversial decision goes against us, I have the right to ask the question.

“If there is a perception that Celtic are putting pressure on referees, it is an unfair perception. I am not doing anything any other manager wouldn’t do so I think we are blowing this a little bit out of proportion.”

On the threats to Collum, Lennon added: “It is desperate. I don’t want this to overspill to something against Willie’s health or well-being. It is a football game and people have to remember that.”

Steven Craven, the assistant referee involved in controversy when Celtic faced Dundee United 10 days ago, tendered his resignation to the SFA earlier this week. The governing body fears others may follow suit.

Lennon said: “We’re living in the age of the internet where people can say and write what they like, stoke up a lot of trouble and provoke emotions in the aftermath of games. Sometimes it’s out of control.”

Guardian Service