Referee sends off his linesman
Friday, January 4, 2002
A referee has sent off his linesman after becoming angry with him.

Jim Monk was sent off towards the end of the game between Blackrod FC and Preston's Springfield FC.

He had apparently accused the other linesman of being a cheat, and was sent off by referee, Ron Marsden.

Mr Monk claimed the match was heated and accused opposing supporters of shouting abuse at players' partners.

"I was more than shocked when I was sent off, but I just have to take the consequences. The other team was using a lot of bad language and there was a lot of antagonism towards us.

"But over the years I have had plenty of pleasant experiences as a linesman, with a cordial atmosphere at most matches. I have not been put off, but I wouldn't really fancy being a linesman if the same man is refereeing," he said.

Springfield FC chairman, Geoff Mason, said: "I have seen referees walk off in the middle of a game. There is lots of rivalry between the teams and I wasn't surprised when the linesman was sent off."

Blackrod won the game 4-3, reports the Bolton Evening News.

View all news items

Return to the main news page | Top of Page | Return to the main archive page