Rangers stick on against Celtic predicted as Hotline goes into meltdown and John Beaton told to save himself time

John Beaton and Ally McCoist are centre stage in the Hotline. The SFA decision to appoint the referee to Sunday’s Old Firm encounter had Celtic and Rangers fans dashing to say their piece. McCoist’s comments around the hate crime law also caused quite the stir amongst correspondents.

Scott Kerr, Glasgow, said: “You have got to be joking, Beaton the ref at Ibrox for Celtic. We have no chance of a result. Guaranteed he gives his favourite team a penalty.” Kenny Wilson, Moffat, said: “Surprise, surprise. Rangers get their man in the middle on Sunday. Get your money on a penalty for Rangers and a red card for Celtic. Everything is stacked against us, but it will be even sweeter when we overcome everything.”

Mark Smith, Cumbernauld, said: “Congratulations to Celtic for getting Beaton as the ref after all their bleating. I sincerely hope, given all the flak he has taken, he will be able to manage the game fairly and not be frightened to make the correct decisions fearing a backlash.”

John Caw said: “According to Hotliners, Celtic run football in Scotland. Rangers complain about Willie Collum and he’s barred from Ibrox for a couple of games. Celtic complain about Don Robertson and Beaton and, yes, they are handed Celtic next two games. Aye Celtic run Scottish football. You can only cry at the stupidity.”

Pat Reilly, Cupar, said: “It would save time for later if the game started with the mandatory James Tavernier penalty, instead of normal kick off.”

Chris Lowe, Yoker, stated: “Have Celtic fans forgotten that they only won both Old Firm games this season as a result of 'incompetent refereeing decisions?' The big question is why have our two full-time VAR guys been cast aside for two of their favourites. Also, who is the