Neil Lennon banned for three matches after protesting ‘scandalous’ penalty decision

Neil Lennon has received a three match immediate ban by the Scottish FA.

The Hibs’ Head Coach was cited for misconduct at a match official during last month’s 2-2 draw with Kilmarnock.

Lennon was justifiably angry at a penalty awarded by referee Kevin Clancy when the ball struck Ryan Porteous inside the penalty area. Hibs had been leading 2-0 before two debateable decisions levelled the score.

Clancy sent him to the stand in response to his protests and Lennon responded by sarcastically applauding the official.

Following the game Lennon described the decision as ‘scandalous’

He appeared in person at  Hampden Park this morning alongside George Craig, Hibs’ Head of Football Operations.

An immediate three-match suspension has been imposed immediately, with a further two-match suspension to be imposed in the event of a further breach before the end of the calendar year.

The ban will cover tomorrow’s visit to Perth plus home games against Partick Thistle and Hamilton.