Derby matches are heated occasions at the best of times without certain players acting up. I think we all know where I’m going with this but it has to be said. Derek Riorden’s behaviour on Sunday was absolutely disgusting, I mean this man is supposed to be a role model but he’s just an overpaid, petulant kid who’s had too much too soon.

The incident in question for anyone who doesn’t know is that when he was being substituted (and may I add rightly so after contributing nothing) he made a gesture at the Hearts fans and was subsequently booked for this incident. But that’s where it will end. He should be hit where it hurts and that’s in his pocket. However this is not in the rules because match official Craig Thomson booked him there and then so no further action can be taken.

Riorden is not the only player to cause trouble during a derby match. The highest profile case would surely be Artur Boruc crossing himself during countless Old Firm derbies. These situations led to Boruc receiving fines and the same should be the case for ex Celt Riorden.

Another case of inciting crowd trouble was committed in 2003 by former Hibs captain; Iain Murrey who shaved 1973 into his head to symbolise better times for the side from Leith. A time were they humbled Hearts 7-0. But that is beside the point. It is at the end of the day a problem.

I say they all should have been fined and that the SFA need to have a long hard look in the mirror because to let players get away with these kinds of incidents is a farce.