Referees split as Saints return to action

By Tivy-Side reporter

An emotive football issue involving referees and Costcutter League club St Dogmaels took another twist when four of the 12 registered match officials opted to continue their refusal to officiate at Saints matches while the other eight decided to abandon the protest.

At a meeting attended by three referees it was resolved not to take up the whistle for games involving St Dogmaels first team and reserves, but during a second get-together attended by two Costcutter representatives the majority of refs were in favour of returning to the status quo.

The referees protested against alleged Facebook comments by St Dogmaels first team manager Steve Jerry Williams.

The manager was suspended for three seasons and fined £500 by a Central Wales Football Association disciplinary committee, but on appeal the Football Association of Wales reduced the ban to six games and the fine to £120.

Due to the action by referees, two games involving St Dogmaels teams were postponed on Saturday, September 15, but the Firsts returned to action on Saturday when Wyn Roberts officiated during a Division One game in the north Pembrokeshire village.

Although St Dogmaels FC did not comment an avid supporter at School Field, where Jason Williams and colleagues sprang a 3-0 win over Newcastle Emlyn, said: “Fortunately it appears that despite a few referees continuing their action the issue is closed and I’m sure Saints will do their talking on the pitch.”