Stupid question coming up guys (sorry) but exactly how should a ref abandon a match, or is it simply just a case of blowing the whistle, waving your arms dismissively perhaps and saying, "okay, this match is now abandoned". ?? Genuine question.
Abandoning needs to be done in an orderly confident manner just the same as any other decision. Just walking off is not sufficient and may lead to further misconduct. There is no other time where an aura of complete control (even if your faking it) is needed.
The match is now more heated than any other in your career, for perhaps the first time ever, BOTH teams will want you to change your decison: Don't.
After the moron who has caused the abandonment is back in the changing room (and I do mean back in the changing room, this is vital, if he is pitch side he may figure he has nothing to lose once you abandon). I don't care if this takes all day I will say "nothing is happening until that player is gone"
I will call in both captains, and I mean just the captains, I will not be announcing this decision to 22 people at once.
"Gents, due to the incident that just occurred this match has now been abandoned"
I will remain polite but firm to the ludicrous pleas to continue.
My actions next would very much depend on whether I thought further misconduct was likely.
If I did I would be taking a position on the pitch with EVERYONE between me and the changing room so any idiots that fancies a verbal or physical pop will have to go out of his way and I will see him coming a mile off. I will stay here until most have got bored and buggered off.
If I think I can just leave the vicinity with no further incident I will do just that.
Do not run, it makes you look weak and will encourage further misconduct.
