By Dylan Inglis
Paul Davies has slammed a refereeing decision in the 4-4 draw he fears could cost Newmains at the end of the season.
United were heading for a 4-3 win at Greenock Juniors when Craig Scott was penalised for a foul in the dying seconds.
Ref Kenny Allen pointed to the spot despite the incident appearing to take place outside a poorly lined penalty box.
Replays on YouTube seem to back that up – and crestfallen co-boss Davies admits it was the latest in several puzzling incidents leading to the controversial moment.
He said: “The ball had gone out for a throw-in which we contested. My co-manager Craig Gupwell had words with the referee which resulted in him being sent to the stands.
“The referee spoke to me as well and I said to him, rightly or wrongly, ‘you’re just going to wait until they score.’
“Both myself and Craig were wrong to challenge the official but what happened next was crazy. It’s online and people can see it.
“The visibility of the markings on the box were an issue to us before the game – we joked about it but ultimately didn’t do anything at the time.
“Our centre-back Craig Scott was facing away from the attacking player, who threw himself to the ground.
“I believe it was nowhere near the 18-yard box either but the referee deemed it a penalty.
“We can’t appeal it but I think the authorities need to be made aware. Come the end of the season that could be costly for us as we could still get what would be deemed a promotion.
“It’s frustrating for that incident to happen because it’s cost us two points.”
Newmains had fallen behind after just thirty seconds when Ben Eardley scored for the hosts.
Scott equalised then Dylan McLaughlin restored Greenock’s lead – but goals from Kris Jarvie and Michael Barton had United 3-2 up by the break.
McLaughlin levelled again before Dominic Cherrie headed in a Marc Howson free-kick to put the visitors back in front – Howson’s third assist of the match.
But in-form striker McLaughlin finished the scoring by slotting in the late spot-kick.
Davies added: “In this game we had a team that could compete. I’ve believed from day one if we can get our strongest 11 on the pitch we’ll cause teams problems.”
Newmains next face Kello Rovers on Saturday at Victoria Park. Entry is £5 for adults, £2.50 for OAPs and FREE for under 16s.
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