Willie Collum accused of ‘appalling’ treatment of one referee as ex official asks chief ‘where’s the duty of care?’

Des Roache reckons Collum isn't doing a 'particularly good job' of managing our game's refs…

Daily Record

Published: Tuesday, 27 October 2026 at 6:01 PM

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Des Roache accused Willie Collum of failing his duty of care regarding referee Matthew MacDermid's management.
MacDermid faced criticism following a controversial penalty awarded to Partick Thistle against Ayr United.
Roache pointed to MacDermid's exhausting schedule across three fixtures in four days as a factor in his errors.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Scottish FA head of refereeing Willie Collum has been accused by former Grade One official Des Roache of failing in his duty of care toward referee Matthew MacDermid. Roache stated that MacDermid's recent officiating mistakes stem from poor management and insufficient coaching, arguing that officials need proper handling when they lose form.

Roache highlighted MacDermid's heavy schedule, noting he officiated in Estonia on a Wednesday before handling Ayr United against Partick Thistle on Friday and serving as VAR for Dundee against Rangers on Saturday. Roache argued that Collum should have rested and coached MacDermid rather than repeatedly assigning him to high-profile fixtures.

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