Rebel refs return to league

FOOTBALL:

THE Oldham Sunday League committee and rebel referees have drawn a line under the fall-out which saw a number of officials boycott matches, claiming they feared for their safety.

Peace has broken out following several meetings between the parties and the Manchester FA. All registered referees who walked out have now been asked to return.

In October, 12 of a regular pool of 20 officials opted against turning out, which led to referees from other leagues being drafted in and, in some cases, a player elected by both teams took charge of the whistle.

A statement issued by the Manchester FA read: “Meetings have been held between the Oldham Sunday League and Manchester FA and also match officials within the league and Manchester FA.

“All parties were clear that it was important that discussions took place to resolve any issues of recent weeks. It was clear from discussions that all parties accepted that, in hindsight, we would have communicated matters differently. The league accepts there have been misunderstandings that have arisen with their match officials.

“The Oldham Sunday League and referees are committed to working closely with Manchester FA to ensure that future situations can be avoided and correct process and appropriate communication is followed. The matter is now resolved in full and is considered closed.”

Colin Bridgford, chief executive of the Manchester FA, met with both parties. He said: “There is clearly a significant amount of respect for the match officials within Oldham and also the league management committee. I am committed to supporting this league personally throughout the season and into next. It is important that I and our referee development manager also support the match officials to ensure they have a voice, and that communication can be constructive.”

Val Broadbent, Oldham Sunday League secretary, hopes the officials who boycotted matches will come back soon.

She added: “All registered match officials in Oldham who have operated within the league would be considered for appointments by the referees’ secretary. The league would like the match officials to consider their availability back with the Oldham Sunday League as soon as possible.”