Give refs a break...

Last week, The NLP reported an incident in a South Midland match between Cockfosters and Oxhey Jets, where a player was alleged to have struck the referee after being sent off. The full details of the incident are not yet known, but a tweet from Cockfosters – who the player represented – certainly appeared to confirm the allegations of assault.

No match official should ever feel in danger when doing their job on the football pitch. And we wonder why there is a shortage of referees coming forward in the lower leagues.

Abuse of officials is widespread, whether it be punches, kicks or simply swear words. Two weeks ago I attended a National League game where the fourth official was verbally abused throughout, by both dugouts. If managers and players want referees to show consistency in their decision-making, then let’s start here. Any abuse – on any official – should be an instant dismissal and ban. You’ll soon start cleaning out the bad apples...