SAUDI ARABIAN sinner Salem Al Dawsari has been let off with just a paltry six-game ban for headbutting Scottish ref John Beaton.

The official was stunned when he was assaulted by the 20-times capped Al Dawsari during the Riyadh derby between Al Hilal and Al Nasr.

Beaton took charge of the explosive encounter along with fellow Scots Stuart Stevenson and Douglas Ross.

He sent-off three players as Al Nasr claimed a 1-0 win, with the last red card shown to Al Hilal midfielder Al Dawsari, who reacted angrily to a foul being given against him by appearing to throw a headbutt in Beaton's direction.

But despite suggestions Al Dawsari would be handed a huge worldwide six-month ban, the Saudi FA disciplinary board have decided to ban the player for just six games, which means he will be back playing by the end of next month.

He was also fined £3,370 for the disgraceful incident.

A Saudi FA statement confirmed: "The committee were satisfied it was proved Salem Al Dosari did try to assault the referee by hitting his head against the head of the referee and trying to push him.

"He will be banned for six official matches and be fined 20,000 Riyals."

His club's president, Mohammad Al-Homaidani, was also fined £8,445 for his comments on Beaton after the game where he complained he's favoured Al Nasr.

Al Hilal were also fined £1,688 for having eight players booked in the game.