The Ref Stop

Middle finger during semi final

Donate to RefChat

Help keep RefChat running, any donation would be appreciated

Jmartin184

New Member
Level 7 Referee
Had my first semi final yesterday. Had a player give me the middle finger during the match. Gave him a straight red. Just confirming this was the right decision. (Only been referring for just over a month so just want a clarification)
 
The Ref Stop
I'd say red is correct but a bit of context helps. Why did he do it? Etc.

Noticed its your first post. Welcome to the forum. This is an invaluable resource for any referee joining.

Your post says you are a newish referee. Well done for identifying it correctly and not bottling it.
 
Last edited:
OI find it disturbing that anyone would even argue that flipping off the ref is not a red.
I know (hope) this is not a dig at me for aking for the context. Context is always important.

I refereed a lowest division ladies O35 game several years ago. I volunteered as there were no referees appointed.
A player flipped me the middle finger. Should have I send her off?
Context. (Consider in order and one at a time if further context is not available)
- It was after I gave a FK against her
- the match being played in very good spirits between two teams of same club I knew well
- it drew a big laugh from both side's players and bench
- she flipped it with a big smile and a wink as she was jogging away
- the player happens to be my wife playing her first season of football. 😆 almost everyone knew she is my wife.
I think just pausing play and making a point of having a chat with her was the right action at the time.
(Discalimer to protect the innocent/guilty -The characters in this story may or may not been fictional)
 
Last edited:
Back
Top