Click to enlarge and debate the strip below the line.
Keith Hackett’s verdict
1) The physio’s anger is justified – up to a point. You shouldn’t have restarted before being sure the keeper was ready: this is a mess of your own making. But now you have to deal with the situation in front of you. Calm everyone down, and inform the physio that he will be reported to the authorities for his action. Once the keeper is ready, restart with a dropped ball from the point where the ball was when the physio touched it (or, if that contact happened inside the goal area, from a point on the goal area line parallel to the goalline).
Thanks to Tony Timbrell.
2) Of course: you have to nip this sort of provocation in the bud. Explain that the wig has to go – it would be dangerous for him if someone grabbed it, and it could be a danger to opponents. On top of that, he’s exhibiting a clear lack of respect, and not taking the game seriously. Tell him he’s had his fun.
Thanks to Peter Appleton.
3) I’d be tempted to smirk back and send him on his way with a yellow card. But you can’t make the rules up as you go, and the facts are these: although the banner came from the crowd, the player has ostentatiously displayed it to everyone – and the message it contains clearly fits the definition of “offensive, insulting or abusive” language. It might make you look a bit humourless, but you’re there to do a job – so send him off, and report the facts after the game.
Andy Walker wins the shirt.
Christmas Special competition: win signed artwork
Win a unique piece of You are the Ref signed artwork by sending us the most original question in the Ref’s 50-year history. To enter, email us before 14 December – Paul Trevillion will illustrate the three most imaginative, surreal, cryptic or entertaining ideas, with one winner taking the prize. Usual terms apply. Here’s the 2014 festive special, featuring a Dalek and Jossy’s Giants.
