A Chip off

Andrew Dallas Referee

Why did you become a Referee?

I have always loved football and was getting tired of Rangers mangers say the famous words “don’t call us, we will call you" after trials. My dad was involved with the masons or as its better known the association and suggested that I give it a try and fulfil my dream of helping Rangers.

What is the best thing about being a Referee?

The people you meet and the experiences you have. I have a lot of best mates within the refereeing family and some of the laughs we have shared will never be forgotten. Also getting to operate at the top level in Scottish football is very good, for a long time I would watch The Rangers matches on the television so to be able to be involved and help at that level gives you a great feeling of pride.

What would you class as your proudest moment in Refereeing?

Being appointed to the Junior Cup final as AR1 between Shotts Bon Accord v Auchinleck Talbot in 2012 was a very proud moment for me. My first SFL match as a category 2 Development referee was at Berwick Rangers v East Stirling and my first SPL match as a fourth official was Hearts FC v Inverness both will live long in the memory but helping The Rangers out when they were struggling against a very good Brechin side tops them all.

What is the funniest shout you’ve heard at a match?

One Saturday when I didn’t have a match to officiate at I was in my usual seat at Ibrox when I heard a fan shout who’s the feenyan in the black, l was laughing inside and if the lodge had permitted I would have reassured my fellow ger.

What match you’ve officiated at lives long in the memory?

I was lucky enough to be fourth official when Rangers played AC Milan in a friendly a few years ago. When we arrived the referee asked me to go and check the colours, when I walked into the away dressing room the first three seats were occupied by David Beckham, Andrea Pirlo and Ronaldinho, those who know me will tell you that its very seldom I’m left speechless so l just belted out the sash as l left their dressing room.

Who is the worst trainer within the Association?

Training is a very personal thing and you only get out what you put in. The guys who don’t put a lot of effort in know who they are and so do we. I’m dying to name names but I won’t so just make sure you make the right decision even if you don’t quite see what really happened.

If you could change 1 rule within the laws of the game what would it be and why?

If a player is guilty of Simulation against the mighty Gers he should receive a straight red card, its cheating after all.

What your favourite pastime away from Refereeing?

I love spending time with my family (my brothers at the lodge), I have two amazing kids and a wonderful wife so any free time we have we get down to the ‘wee free’.

What CD is in your car?

No CDs only iPhone, I’m currently listing to a lot of Blue Order and Apprentice boys stuff.

What your favourite grub on a Saturday night after your match?

(We won’t tell Graeme Jones)
I do a lot of cooking when I’m home so a nice fillet steak with blue stilton white wine and red sauce.

If you could meet anyone in the world who would it be? Why?

Any of the royal family because I am so loyal.

What advice would you give to new members coming into Refereeing?

Give it everything you have, enjoy it and don’t be afraid to give dodgy decisions to the Gers just remember the lodge is right behind you Hello hello we are............

(Free Leo !!!!!!!!!)