Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes sent off for reacting to sectarian abuse from Celtic fans
Sunday 14 April 2019 18:22, UK
Derek McInnes was sent to the stands during Aberdeen's Scottish Cup semi-final after appearing to react to sectarian abuse from a group of Celtic fans.
The Aberdeen boss was on the touchline after his side had gone down to nine men during their 3-0 defeat at Hampden Park when he made a gesture with his arm to some Celtic supporters.
He was then spotted remonstrating with fourth official Nick Walsh and was promptly sent to the stands by referee Craig Thomson.
After the match, McInnes told reporters that he was reacting to sectarian abuse, but insisted he shouldn't have let his emotions get the better of him.
"I let it go the first time but I shouldn't react, and I'll take my punishment. I should be better than that," he said.
"It'll be interesting to see if everybody gets punished for the incident, but I shouldn't have reacted to it.
"I've heard that song a hundred times aimed at me and I've never reacted to it. The fourth official deemed my reaction a red card offence. If it is, then I'll take my punishment for that.
"I think it'll be in the delegate's report, which is refreshing as it's not every time sectarian singing is in there."
McInnes joined assistant Tony Docherty, who had also been sent to the stands earlier in the game, on a day when Aberdeen's Don Ball and Lewis Ferguson were also sent off. Celtic will now face Hearts in next month's final.
