The stupid ref returns

Last updated : 15 February 2005 By Rob Davies
Pike made himself few friends at Meadow Lane for his dealing with an incident that took place when Notts lost 1-0 to Bury earlier on in the season.

And, subject to a late change by the Football League, Pike is set to again take charge of a Notts County fixture just under 3 months after his ineptitude left a Notts player in serious danger.

McFaul: Left in danger
The incident came in the second half of the otherwise eventless fixture at Gigg Lane.

18-year-old Shane McFaul was denied what looked to be a justifiable penalty claim after being wrestled to the floor by a Bury defender. The young Irish midfielder then sustained what looked to be an extremely serious injury when falling awkwardly to the floor.

And while Notts' players appealed desperately to the gormless official for neccesary medical attention to be handed to their stricken team-mate, the referee let play continue for over two minutes while McFaul was left helpless on the floor.

Even when play was eventually stopped, Pike's first port of call was to send off Magpies striker Glynn Hurst for taking his protests for the essential treatment to be given too far.

As things turned out - despite McFaul being carried off on a spinal board - the Irish under-19 international only suffered severe whiplash and mild concussion. But, thanks to Pike's negligence, it could have been much worse.

And, amazingly, not only is he still a fully fledged referee but the moronic Pike should again take charge of a Notts County fixture tonight. It should be the first time for a long while when the home supporters don't have to ask: "Who's the bastard in the black?"

To take a look at an article written by NCM just after the incident, click here.

Let's hope no player on either side is in need of medical attention this evening.