Former Hibernian goalkeeper Sean Murdoch is set for his first involvement in a Scottish Premiership match this weekend, marking a significant milestone in his refereeing career.
Murdoch, who joined Hibs in October 2012 as backup to Ben Williams, retired at the end of the 2018/19 season to focus on officiating full-time. Having passed his first refereeing exam at just 21, he achieved Category 3 Development Referee status by 28, allowing him to officiate in various leagues, including the SWPL, Highland League, East of Scotland, and junior divisions.
The 38-year-old has already officiated at Easter Road, having taken charge of the Hibs vs. Hearts SWPL clash in April 2023. His playing career began at Dunfermline Athletic, with loan spells at Forfar and Hamilton before a permanent move to Accies. He also had a stint with Accrington Stanley and later played for the now-defunct Rochester Rhinos in the U.S. before returning to Dunfermline in 2015, where he finished his career.
Speaking to Sky Sports last year, Murdoch revealed that he had always planned to retire early to maximize his refereeing potential. “I used to watch and train with referees while I was a goalkeeper, so it was always my ambition,” he said.
Now preparing for his first experience with VAR, he acknowledged the increased scrutiny it brings. “We aim to get decisions right on the field, but if we make mistakes, VAR is there to help,” he added.
Murdoch officiated his first SPFL games in the 2022/23 season, overseeing matches in League One and League Two. However, this weekend marks his debut involvement in the top flight, as he serves as the fourth official for Kilmarnock vs. St Johnstone.
Announcing the milestone on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote: “Tomorrow is my first Premiership game. Kilmarnock v St Johnstone, fourth official. Another milestone reached.”
He will be part of an officiating team led by referee Matthew McDermid, with assistant referees Ross Macleod and Scott Anderson. Alan Muir will be on VAR, assisted by Gary Hilland.
