It is of no surprise that the SFA are picking up on Coughlin's comments, given the fact that if you dare say anything critical about the SFA or any of their officials youy will be called up. The Hearts manager, Craig Levein, is currently refusing to pay a fine imposed on him in after post match comments he made, an example Coughlin may well follow.
In my opinion, managers should be allowed to say what they like about referee's performances, within reason. If the ref had a shocker then the manager and players should be allowed to speak out.
By coincidence, tomorrow or Thursday should see the first of Stuart Dickson's columns, which covers some of Coughlin's comments regarding his players and referees.
Story source: The Official St. Mirren Website