Cardiff’s Jones blast at ref

Cardiff City’s win over rivals Leeds United was clouded by bad taste singing from both sets of fans, and Dave Jones’ outburst against the standard of refereeing.

Hapless Premiership referee Mark Clattenberg made a series of wrong decisions with regards to throw ins etc but several major mistakes had a huge effect on the game.

Michael Chopra was mystified with his second yellow card, apparently for a high elbow on Hayden Foxe after the two had clased previously. One could believe that decision, and whilst disappointing, it could be lived with.

Simon Walton’s decision however was nothing short of a disaster. Walton made great strides to support a Cardiff break and recieved the ball, a Leeds defender blocked his path and sent Walton groundwards. There was undeniably contact, not subtle like a tap of the foot, but hard contact from two big players running flat out. The referee however, had no hesitation in sending Walton off for a dive, leaving Cardiff with 9 men and Walton sent off against his old club. One of the truly terrible decisions of all time, and even the Leeds players looked mystified.


Another incident which upset Jones was the penalty. Roger Johnson jumped at the far post and cleanly headed towards goal, but visiting striker Tresor Kandol jumped in front of the header and clearly blocked with his hand. Penalty given but no punishment for Kandol, and it is the inconsistency which upsets managers and lands them in trouble.



‘The red and yellow cards handed out today were in the main for nothing challenges.’

‘At one stage I didn’t know how many players I would end up with, but my players were magnificent.

‘If you are not good enough for the Premiership then you shouldn’t referee in the Championship.’


‘I hope he never refs us again because he tried everything in his power to give Leeds a helping hand,’


Jones is almost certain to face disciplinary action over his comments, most likely in the form of a touchline ban. He is likely to be forgiven in a flash by Bluebirds fans, who are grateful to have a passionate manager.