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READER'S LETTERS APRIL 2008
We will publish your letters on this page regularly, complete with comments from Jeff.
So why not write in and let us know what you are thinking about the goings on at Boro, Darlington and Hartlepool. We'll get your letter on the site as soon as we can.
Click here to write to Jeff...
Click here to read letters from previous months
From: Zac, 30th April 2008
Hi Jeff, I just have a question about a decision.
I refereed a game at school yesterday and I didn't have any linos so had to do all work myself.
A player said the ball went out of play but I didn't see it and I carried on and the lad told me to "f**k off" so I stopped the game and sent him straight off. I didn't even say anything to him except off you go and I restarted the game with a free kick to opposite team. What would you have done?
Jeff's reply
By the letter of the law you were correct. If you deemed what he said to you offensive and insulting, you should have asked for his name, told him why you were sending him off and started play with an indirect free kick to the opposition.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Davey, 29th April 2008
SOUTHGATE OUT, THE MAN HAS NO CLUE, BOLTON WAS A SHAMBLES, WAKE UP BORO
FANS THE MAN IS A ONE WAY TICKET DOWN THE TOILET.
Jeff's reply
Well bugger me you are still alive! I thought you had internally
combusted with your continued hate campaign. You won't be happy until
Gareth goes. You may be in for a long miserable wait.
Who should be Boro manager then, you fancy it?
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: John Harrison, 29th April 2008
Hi Jeff
I believe Middlesbrough are in a bad state. I heard Aliadiere say he had
a great season on TV but the man has only scored about five goals in thirty
games. It's a shocking statement.
John
Jeff's reply
Boro are in a worse state than most of the Premier League and are unable
financially to compete with the "Big Boys".
Aliadiere has played very well this season. It was his first full season in
football and without the injury setbacks I believe he would have hit
double figures.
Having said that, he is not in the team to be just a goal
scorer and must not be judged as such.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Bob, 28th April 2008
Jeff, I thank you for your honesty in your reply and I can see that sadly you are correct.
However we are then faced with either accepting the game as it is and standards falling, or effecting a change
I believe the game is worth the effort and I don't believe that I am the only one who believes this.
I think there are millions of true football lovers who believe as I do. Okay, it might be extreme to expect refs to pull out red cards at the first sign of bad language but challenging the ref's decisions in an intimidating way should always carry a card.
I don't care what the outcry from clubs is, they know it won't be tolerated and they have the power to ensure their players don't suffer a card.
It is not the refs in the Premiership or indeed the Football League that suffer the repercussions of this but the ref giving up his time on a Saturday and Sunday morning who feels the sharp end of their failure.
There are too many empty words spouted about this and not enough action from those who are the custodians of the game we love.
This issue may be huge but as the saying goes "How do you eat an Elephant?" - I will keep having a bite 'til it is gone.
Once again thank you for taking the time to respond and sharing your wealth of experience.
Regards
Bob
Jeff's reply
I think you do speak for a lot of people Bob, although many fans don't get so passionate for action when it is one of their own team's players in the "dock".
You are totally correct in that the real problem comes for "grass roots" football. Let's hope that some action is taken to help everyone.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Rovers!, 27th April 2008
Mate, 6-1 to Liverpool instead of 3-1. You make me laugh!! Slightly biased
towards the the "Big Four" yet again I think.
Jeff's reply
You are obviously making reference to my Zoo magazine League of Injustice column.
I have no bias towards anybody, I just believe that the ref
got a few major decisions wrong.
Surely even an avid Blackburn Rovers fan
can see that.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Pat Sharp. 27th April 2008
Jeff, I know you have said your bit on LEE PROBERT and his shocking decision
which turned the game when Pools played Swansea at the Vic. Last Saturday,
that same referee was "in charge" of a Premiership game. It was Wigan v Spurs.
He was stood just yards away when Melchiot bundled over Berbatov inside the
penalty box and he ignored it. The foul was a lot more blatant and
obvious than Ben Clark's on the Swansea player and nothing was given.
What sort of comeback (IF ANY) will that joker get from the people who think they run the game?
Jeff's reply
Probably none. I don't know Lee Probert personally, although he does
appear to be one of the blue eyed boys who is being pushed by his southern
mentors.
I understand he is responsible for entries on Wikipedia about refs.
I have personally tried to contact him about inaccuracies but he fails to
respond.
God knows why he does this and who he thinks he is in putting
personal information online about people he does not even know. Maybe that is a
similar arrogance that he shows on the field of play.
I have watched him a
few times this season and I just do not think he has what it
takes to ref at Premier League level. But then again what do I know?
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Zac, 26th April 2008
Do you ever go and watch young referees now you are retired?
Do you think the referees currently in the Premiership (apart from Webb and
Clattenburg) need to let the game flow a lot more and who do you think is the best ref England's now got? I think Clattenburg but no one else.
Jeff's reply
I think the experienced refs let the game flow as much as they can.
They can only safely do that if they are sure that the players are not going
to react to challenges and take the law into their own hands.
When I stopped reffing I set up a Refs Academy in conjunction with
Middlesbrough FC. We got a lot of young refs coming through and some of them
are very good.
I stepped aside to let the FA take over the running of it
because of my business commitments and it folded as no one took it on board.
I still keep in touch with some of the refs and do watch them from time to
time.
Howard Webb is our number one at the moment and rightly so. We are still good
friends and keep in touch.
I had an interesting conversation with a younger ref last week. He had
worked with a Premier League ref for the first time and was amazed at just
how good he was in all aspects of the game. A fact that many fans and indeed
some refs would not believe!!
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Richard Dixon, 26th April 2008
I hope things are going well.
We are discussing "dropped ball" restarts here in Edmonton.
The question is, at your level of soccer, how did you manage dropped balls? Were they all fair play restarts? Did the players
manage them or did you facilitate their happening? Were any challenged?
I am still quoting you on several points from your trip here five years ago. Time to come out again?
Richard
Jeff's reply
I would love to return one day. Is Steph still reffing? Tell her to get in
touch with me.
Nowadays we rarely see a true drop ball. They tended to
happen in the past when play was stopped, usually if the ball was stuck
between players.
Quite often they were more trouble than they were worth, as
often players would then kick out as the ball was dropped and all hell broke
loose.
As I am sure you are aware, a ref cannot instruct players not to
contest a drop ball but the laws do not state that players from each side
have to contest it.
As I say, today we usually see players just giving the
ball back to the opposition.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Davey, 26th April 2008
Hi Jeff
I can't believe the club are giving access all areas to kids for a
tenner. Do you think this is the right thing for the club to do? I would
value your opinion.
P.S. Great shows each week - the Soc Sat is well recieved in my circles.
Davy
Jeff's reply
As I have said previously, this is causing a debate amongst Boro fans.
Some think that it is a great initiative to encourage youngsters, others
think it is unfair.
I know nowadays it would probably not work but an old
style "Boys End" would not be a bad idea - it did not do us any harm.
Personally I just want a full ground, full of fans who will
actually support the team not just sit there like fucking Muppets.
Glad you are still enjoying the shows.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Jack, 25 April 2008
Alright Jeff, another question from me!!
Do you know of any other referees who have
their own websites? If so, what are their sites called?
Thanks mate
Jack
Jeff's reply
I don't think so, at least not in this country. Some will say that
refs should not have a site but I am an ex-ref and it is necessary now for
my business interests.
As usual, there are some who will make derogatory
comments about it but it still gets thousands of hits so
it must be interesting to some.
Best Wishes
Jeff
P.S. There is one I think called www.upmyownarse.co.uk. I think it's Graham
Poll's.
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From: Steve Gorac, 25 April 2008
What is the point of this crap site? It sucks almost as bad as your
refereeing did.
Jeff's reply
Thanks for looking at the site and your much valued opinion of it. Wonder
why thousands of people read it regularly!!!
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Jack, 25th April 2008
Hi Jeff
I'm a very passionate Norwich fan and often travel from Cyprus to watch them
play. Do you think we will stay up this season?
Also, what do you think
about the controversy surrounding Andy D'Urso in the recent Norwich v Bristol
City match as the handball looked clear cut to me? And now
Glen Roeder is going to be fined for whatever he was meant to have said.
If we had won that game, the chances are we would now be safe from
relegation. I was just wondering what your thoughts are on the matter.
I also think that some of the other e-mails you have received are very harsh
as 90% of the things you say are correct!
Jack Feavers, Cyprus
Jeff's reply
Only 90% Jack? And I thought I was perfect!! Ha ha.
I have a lot of time for Glen Roeder and Paul Stephenson and I do think
Norwich will stay up.
In every game there will be decisions that can affect the
outcome of the game. Maybe there should have been a penalty awarded in the
game but also over the course of the ninety minutes, there will have been many
other situations where if players had made better decisions in play, goals
could have been scored or conceded.
Also, over the course of the season,
Norwich are in the position that they are in because of consistently below
par performances.
No matter how aggrieved a manager is, they have to show better discipline. If
they can't control themselves then how do we expect the players to do so?
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Jack, 24th April 2008
Jeff, I am trying to become a referee and because I live in Cyprus, I am
strugling to do so. This is because I don't know what to do concerning
courses. Do you have any ideas?
Jack Feavers, 14, Cyprus
Jeff's reply
Hi Jack
If you get in touch with the Football Association of Cyprus they will advise you
of when and where courses take place.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Zac, 24th April 2008
Hi Jeff, I am a massive fan of yours. I love your autobiography.
I'm a young
referee myself and I love it - every game I have done. I am only 15 but I am thinking
about wanting to do it professionally but I just need some tips for match days.
Could you send me some refereeing goodies? Cheers if you can.
Jeff's reply
Hi Zac
I'm glad you enjoy your reffing, stick in and be strong. Have a look on the Advice to Refs section of my website.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Bob Smith, 24th April 2008
Jeff
I have seen many occurrences of similar language to that which was used by Javi in that incident and as I have said, I haven't got an issue with the ref's decision in that case.
My problem is that after the Ashley Cole incident and the uproar that followed it, we were led to believe that refs would clamp down on this in order to stamp it out. That is the reason why I have no issue with the Javi red card as the ref had no other choice.
Since then though, it hasn't been followed through. There hasn't been an improvement in players' attitude towards officials and it would seem that refs have regressed back into their old ways of allowing it to go unpunished.
As football fans, we always have the old comments being trotted out about how it wouldn't happen in rugby as they respect the ref in that sport. In any game of rugby the ref would pull any player up who swore at him, let alone crowded him whilst arguing against a decision.
So I put it to you again that Keith Hackett and his refs need to take a close look at their actions before they start apportioning blame for poor behaviour.
I am glad you agree that they aren't strong enough but I would like to take this a step further as it is no good yourself and I agreeing, shaking our heads and sitting back.
I would like to effect a change in the game I love. So if you can assist in pointing me to the most effective place or person to raise this point in order to try to get the the game I love back to a level where kids are being set the correct examples by the players they watch week in and week out, I would greatly appreciate it.
Regards
Bob
Jeff's reply
This issue seems one that you feel strongly about and you want to take action to change the way players behave.
The authorities make noises but don't actually do anything about it. I can tell you now that if the refs started handing out cards week after week, the media and the fans would turn on them. The cry would be that these refs are spoiling the game and are just seeking attention.
Likewise, there would be an outcry from the clubs and the managers. Hackett would meet with the clubs, then instruct the refs to calm down a little.
Unfortunately we now live in a world where bad languauge and a lack of respect for authority is prevalant and football appears to be no different. When reffing a game, if there was a flurry of cards, justified or not, the players would lose total respect for the ref and the game would develop into a farce.
The refs are easy to blame and they get no support. They would jeopodise their own careers if they became mavericks. We already have situations where if a "Big Club" manager critcises a ref then "spineless" Hackett and Co. don't send that ref to that club for the foreseeable future. The clubs are running the game and would not allow the mass sending offs to happen.
These may not be the answers you are looking for but I can assure you that is what would happen. People make noises but then don't follow them up with any action. Zero tolerance would have a dramatic effect but regrettably it just ain't going to happen.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Harvey Smith, 23rd April 2008
Jeff this kids' ticket thing does not help the loyal fans, it's a joke. 400 quid for me and they say my ticket is frozen. Bugger off MFC.
Harvey
Jeff's reply
The kids' tickets are a good idea to get fans for the future but I agree that it is no good if the dads can't afford to take them. The atmosphere is getting worse mate. My article in the Gazette on Friday will interest you.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Paul, 23rd April 2008
An own goal by the Boro again - fill the ground with screaming kids and f... the rest of us.
PaulJeff's reply
Yes, no atmosphere, outsung by Bolton and outplayed by journeymen. Friday nights Gazette article is hard hitting.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Annie, 23rd April 2008
Hi Jeff
Gareth got it wrong and I don't know why. The fans are gutted and we may go down - it has happened before. Alves is slow and going offside over and over again. Jeff, it's bite nails time.
Annie
Jeff's reply
I don't think that Gareth got it wrong with tactics. We went at them and did not score (again), then as usual backed off and got overrun. I just think our players are not good enough.
I still think it would take an unbelievable run of results for us to go down. The problem is we have to win a game and the longer it takes, the pressure mounts and we know from the Cardiff game that we don't react well to that.
If we get something at Sunderland we should be safe. Here's hoping.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Chris Harrington, 22nd April 2008
Grow up! Asking callers if they know the ref rules was unfair broadcasting. You had umpteen years experience, maybe someome live on air should ask you about bricklaying or plumbling...
Jeff's reply
You seem to have a problem Chris as last week you mailed to say you don't like the show. You are still listening I see though!!
I think it is you who needs to grow up. If I was asked if I knew anything about plumbing or bricklaying I would be honest enough to say no.
We had a fan on saying that Alves was never offside. I asked where he was sat and he said behind the goal.
Another fan passed comment about offsides at Sunderland and I asked him if he knew the offside law. It was a perfectly legitimate question as to my knowledge, 99.9% of football fans have never sat and passed a referee's course and judging by their cries for offside at games, they clearly do not understand the law.
Even if they did, unless they happen to be sat in a certain seat that is directly in line with the player when the ball is played, they are not in a position to judge.
By the way, the off button is on your radio somewhere. I can take criticism if it is constructive or actually deserved.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Jack Feavers, 22nd April 2008
Hi Jeff
I've recently read your book 'The Bastard in the Black' and
enjoyed it a lot. I would like to become a Premier League referee and
I'm wondering what advice would you give me?
Jeff's reply
Hi Jack
If you have a look at the Advice to Refs section of my website, hopefully
there will be some info in there that might assist you.
There are over 30,000 referees in this country and around 20 who ref on the
Premier League, so it is a long road to the top. You must be fit and very
focused and single-minded. Good luck.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Bob, 21st April 2008
After Liverpool had Javier Mascherano sent off for dissent, can you tell me why no other player suffered the same fate on Sunday? When Portsmouth had a player sent off, we saw a number of players surround the ref yet no action was taken.
This isn't an isolated incident, it happens in every match that I have seen either live or on Sky and yet refs wonder why players behave as they do.
We see rugby held up as an example but I feel refs also need to follow that
example and be consistent in stamping out dissent. Would you not agree?
By the way I don't have an issue with the Liverpool sending off as I think
the ref was right.
Jeff's reply
Unfortunately, it would appear that nowadays, surrounding the ref is an
occupational hazard whenever an unpopular decision is made. I must point
out though that the Pompey players appeared nowhere near as vociferous or
indeed as foul-mouthed as Mascherano had been all game prior to his ending
off.
The refs are not being strong enough and neither are the authorities who
constantly fail to take meaningful disciplinary action against the players
and managers who constantly step out of line.
Best wishes
Jeff
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Paul Jones, 21st April 2008
Hi Jeff
I'm in my first year of refereeing and love it. I wish I had taken it up
earlier. After I stopped playing, I managed a club for three years and have now taken up
the whistle.
My question is, who is your favourite referee at present and who
don't you like and why?
Jeff's reply
I am glad to hear that you are enjoying your reffing. You will have some
days when you wonder why you do it and it is then that your dedication and
patience will be put to the test.
At present we have some very good refs. The problem is that whilst we have
some quality, we do not have the quantity.
Howard Webb has emerged as our top
official and quite rightly so. I also think that Mike Dean is an excellent choice
to ref this year's Cup Final.
Who don't I like? That is a strange question. There is the odd one who I
don't like as a person but that is because I know them personally.
All refs
who get to the top are decent refs but at present some of the younger ones
who are being tried out in the Premier League in my humble opinion are not
likely to make the grade.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Zico, 19th April 2008
I am a bit annoyed at your comments regarding Wenger. It was only on the fifth reply
on TV that anyone noticed that he used his hand to score. None of the United
players protested. Did you notice it first time? Did anyone?
Jeff's reply
On this subject you are quite correct Zico - I was particularly surprised at
the lack of reaction from the United players.
It was an impossible one for
the ref or lino to give and he got away with it.
Had that been the only
goal then I think I would have been talking about Fergie on Monday as despite
his recent claim that he and United respect refs, I am sure he would have been
going berserk post match.
That was the point I was making in the article, it was not meant to be
anti-Arsenal but about "Moaning Managers in general".
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Gerry Thompson, 19th April 2008
YOUR CONSTANT DISRESPECT TO ARSENE WENGER AND TO ARSENAL F.C. HAS LONG BEEN
A SOURCE OF ANNOYANCE TO ME.
I DON'T KNOW WHY YOU ARE SO BITTER TOWARDS
THEM. YOU GO ON SKY TV ON MONDAYS AND NEVER GIVE THEM CREDIT, YOU ARE ALWAYS MOANING
AND CRITICAL.
OF COURSE YOU NAILED YOUR COLOURS TO THE MAST YEARS AGO WHEN
CELEBRATING A LIVERPOOL GOAL IN A GAME YOU WERE REFFING.
GET OVER YOUR BITTERNESS, IT'S NOT HEALTHY.
GERRY THOMPSON... DUBLIN
Jeff's reply
Let's get factual here Gerry. It was Mike Reed from Birmingham who was the
ref who was caught with a clenched fist after Liverpool scored. He was a
Villa fan actually.
Also he was actually giving himself a gee up as the goal
had been brought about by an excellent advantage he had played.
With regard to Sky, unfortunately the nature of the beast is that they don't want me on there to talk about good reffing decisions or indeed good play - they want me to talk about dodgy or perceived dodgy decisions and reaction to managers' or players' comments about refereeing.
I have had similar contacts from equally upset Man United and Chelsea fans so you will see that my honest opinions and comments are in no way biased against your team.
Perhaps of late, when I have been asked to comment on Arsenal games, you might think that.
Having said that if you read the columns on my website, you will probably notice that on many recent occasions, I have actually spoken in favour of Arsenal and have disagreed with the decisions given against them.
Best wishes
Jeff
Gerry responds
Point taken Jeff
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From: wonnie, 18th April 2008
You are an idiot. If you cannot understand why Arsene Wenger is upset
about decisions (which coincidentally are at the end of the season to make
it easier for Man United to win the title) then thank God you are no longer a
ref, that is if you were one before.
Jeff's reply
Having an opinion that is different to yours does not make me an idiot.
I fully understand that Arsene and all Arsenal supporters are upset. However
the conspiracy theory is pathetic. If Arsenal could hold on to a lead,
something Wenger himself referred to, then we would not be having this debate.
Then the handball goal from Adebayor on Sunday would have won you the points
and it would be Fergie who was moaning and Arsene would not have seen it.
My article was not anti-Arsenal, it was about all of the managers and clubs I mentioned, i.e. The "Big Four" who all want and expect everything to go their way all of the time.
Best wishes
Jeff
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Gareth Piggott, 18th April 2008
Arsenal are not a dirty team and haven't been for a few years.
I think they were more physical when Vieira, Parlour and Grimandi were in the team years ago but you cannot tar the current team with that brush. You have to applaud the improvement surely?
Wenger will feel he has every reason to feel aggrieved since the Birmingham
away game where every decision has gone against Arsenal.
The main ones were:
1) Adebayor was tugged back as he went to head in Walcott's cross in the dying
seconds of the Milan first leg. It could have been a penalty but it was not given.
2) One (or possibly two) penalties were wrongly not given to Arsenal at
Birmingham for an Adebayor shirt pull and a foul on Hleb.
3) The penalty in the same game against Clichy when he won the ball.
4) Hleb was denied a penalty at the San Siro. He received a yellow card for
diving.
5) Goal wrongly ruled out against Adebayor versus Boro as pass was from
Boateng.
6) Aliadiere wrongly not flagged offside in build-up to Boro goal in same
game.
7) For the first Chelsea goal replays clearly showed Didier Drogba in an
offside position. It was not given. What's more, Terry had failed to give the ball back after Arsenal kicked it out of play for a very spurious Joe Cole injury where he got up as soon as the ball was kicked out and that led directly to the Chelsea goal.
8) Hleb denied a clear penalty in first CL leg v Liverpool.
9) Cesc denied a penalty in League game v Liverpool.
10) Referee awards penalty and books Kolo for a tug on Babel's shirt when
the only possible tug was by Cesc, outside the box. No matter how many
angles you look at it from, Toure did not have his hand on Babel.
This last one, I understand why the ref gave it because it looks like a foul.
Had that been the only poor decision I think Wenger could have dealt with it
but it came on the back of so many others.
Imagine what Fergie would have said if this number of bad decisions had gone
against Man U in the run-in!
Your tone in your article displays a bias against Arsenal and that certainly
clears up a few decisions you made when you refereed Arsenal games in the
past.
You are not alone. There seems to be a distinct lack of respect from
some referees towards Arsenal.
Jeff's reply
Hi Gareth
Bit harsh on me there mate, I was one of the very few refs who did not send
an Arsenal player off during my career.
I am in no way biased against Arsenal. As you will see from the article and many others I have written, I have been equally critical, if not more so, of other sides. Chelsea especially.
I agree that Arsenal are nowhere near as bad discipline-wise as they used to be. But Arsene does not help his cause with his constant eyesight problems as he fails to see things that go for Arsenal but always sees decisions he perceives to be unfair towards his side.
If you read my League Of Injustice article in Zoo magazine each week you will see that I agree with some but not all of your observations above.
I agree with what you said about Fergie and that was the point of my
article. Okay I have mentioned Arsene because of his outburst on Sunday but
they are all as bad as one another and show bad sportsmanship.
Keep the faith, with the good youngsters you have and if Wenger is prepared
to spend some money, your turn will come.
Best wishes
Jeff
Gareth responds
Jeff, thanks for your reply.
I think the short sightedness that Wenger is
famed for is purely his way of managing his players. If he is critical
in public of a mistake one of his players makes, he thinks that would
have a negative psychological effect on that player so he deals with it
privately behind closed doors and claims not to have seen it.
Wenger's
first priority is the welfare of his players, not giving the media what
they want! But I agree, he does tend to see things when they go against
Arsenal, at least in the replays they now have in all the stadiums.
I think bad sportsmanship is shown by people who hate to lose. Managers
at top clubs are invariably like that, including Wenger.
To be fair to Arsenal, the players always kick the ball out of play if an opponent is down even if the ref is willing to play on. Wenger prides himself on things like that. Wenger is all for fair play, but as for admitting his or his teams failings, he finds that very hard to do!
Well done for not sending off any Arsenal players!
Cheers
Gareth
Jeff's reply
I think you are spot on with everything you said there Gareth. I think he is
an excellent manager with an unbelievable eye for talent.
Unfortunately if the phone-in programmes are anything to go by, some Arsenal fans are turning on him. I think that is wrong, he will bring more trophies home if he is prepared to spend some money and is given time to do it.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Peter Edwards, 17th April 2008
Hi Jeff, a couple of days ago you spoke to James Clark, possibly at Hull FM,
about a radio assignment he has to do for Uni. He also asked you a few
questions that can be put in 'Sticky Wicket', a sports journalism
production from the University of Huddersfield.
Those questions were on my
behalf and I was hoping that you could just answer a few more, just little
profile factual questions such as fav food and stuff?
1) Fav Food?
2) Fav Drink?
3) Football team? I'm guessing Boro?
4) Rugby League team?
5) Best hangover cure?
6) Best day of the year?
7) Happiest moment?
8) Worst moment?
Thank you and if you would like a copy sending to you then that can be arranged.
Regards
Peter Edwards
Jeff's reply
1) Sunday roast.
2) Magners, Guinness, Champagne.
3) Boro followed by Glasgow Rangers.
4) Wigan followed by Hull KR.
5) I have my Actimel on a morning then I am okay.
6) Everyday, life is for living. In football terms, opening day of the
season and third round of the FA Cup.
7) Boro winning the Carling Cup Final at Wembley.
8) Having to pay my first wife a load of dosh!!
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From: Brian Gridley, 17th April 2008
Hi Jeff
Just to let you know from afar (Sydney, Australia) that I really appreciate
your comments on the game, specifically those relating to Hartlepool.
I've been an avid follower of the North-east clubs since living and
working as a journalist there in the early '60s (including covering
Sunderland and Newcastle for the Observer). That ages me, doesn't
it?!
Jeff's reply
Good to see that the site is viewed far and wide. We are all getting older
Brian!!!
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: David Ramshaw, 16th April 2008
Dear Jeff
I was given your 'Who's the Bastard in the Black?' book for
christmas last year.
After hearing you on the radio and seeing you ref many times in premiership
and more recently appear on tv commenting on the game, i decided to return
the book.
When reffing you were abysmal, on radio you sound clueless (although you do
have the figure for radio) and on tv your talk utter nonsense.
To think how long i would have wasted of my life readin that book of yours
makes me sick, how glad i am i retuned it.
You appear to be a self obsessed little hitler whos knowledge of the game
is below average if i am being kind.
Congrats on retiring and congrats on the woeful sales figures your book has
achieved.
Jeff's reply
Thank you David for taking the time and trouble to waste a little of your
life in sending me this email.
I must apologise for the delay in replying.
When you sent it I was travelling to the biggest club in this country and indeed
one of the biggest clubs in the world.
They had foolishly booked me to
listen to my clueless abysmal nonsense. Surprisingly, I was seated with the
Chief Executive and also the Chairman of the club. I was also in the company of
some of the greatest players in the game over the last forty years. How tedious
it must have been for them.
Indeed in the last four years I have spoken to
over 60,000 people at functions and helped raise hundreds of thousands of
pounds for charities and other good causes.
As you realize I am constantly in demand on both TV and radio and have a website that commands thousands of hits per week.
I am glad that you returned the book, judging by your spelling and grammar,
you would probably have not understood it anyway.
Thanks to your decision,
the book is struggling badly, with only a few tens of thousands of sales.
Indeed, yesterday I took delivery of another 250 for sales this month on the
After Dinner Speaking circuit.
You see, this self-obsessed little Hitler has managed to fool so many people
for so long but now, thanks to you and your startling observations, I am
finished!!
I would point out that whilst you have finished my lucrative career because
of your well reasoned arguments, I did feel it a little unnecessary to
make the personal comment about me having the figure for radio.
The
problem with the internet is that spineless faceless wankers are now able to
hide behind a keyboard and pass personal comments about someone they don't
even know. I would love to meet you one day so that you can personally pass
on your highly thought out opinions.
I hope I have not wasted too much of your time in reading this as you are
obviously a very important person. David Ramshaw!! No I don't think I
have heard of you.
Best wishes
Jeff
David responds
Jeff, I am sorry you didn't take kindly to my e-mail regarding your book
and figure. I am also sorry you find my grammar poor.
It was not meant to offend you, I would have thought by now you would be
used to comments like those. If it has offended you though, I apologise.
However I would like to know your opinion on Giles Smith.
I have found him to be a very shrwed judge of people and an excellent
writer. In fact, he is a past winner of Sportswriter of the Year. You'd think he
might know a fair bit about sport wouldn't you?
Jeff's reply
You did not offend me David, I just merely replied in the manner
you wrote to me.
I am afraid that I have to own up to some ignorance of my
own now. I am sorry but I am not aware of Giles Smith. I am sure though, if
he has won such a prestigious award, he is obviously quite knowledgeable and
obviously an excellent writer.
But just in case he too has a very low
opinion of me, he is just like you and entitled to an opinion. However, it is not necessarily right all the time!!
Best wishes
Jeff
************************
From: John Tate, 15th April 2008
I have just 'found' your article/site and I like your comments.
I haven't seen much
football for the last twenty years due to family/kids etc but my fourteen year old just decided
he wants to be a Darlo fan! Get in there!!
Jeff's reply
That's great John - local people supporting their local side is what it's
all about.
I am sure he will have a lifetime of disappointment but hopefully
a little success and fun along the way. That's what being a true fan is all
about.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Mike Scott, 14th April 2008
"We have seen the likes of Ronaldo get away with this on numerous
occasions but he plays for Manchester United!!"
What exactly do you mean by this Jeff?
Ronaldo gets punished for diving all
the time. I can think of many occasions when Ronaldo has been punished unfairly
just because of the reputation he carries.
You only have to look at the
Fulham game when Ronaldo was on a hat-trick and got fouled and he was then
booked for diving. Why would he go down if he could score his first ever
Premiership hat-trick? Answer: he wouldn't.
I suppose you will come back with something along the lines of "yeah but
he is going down all the time". That is correct, but Ronaldo sees more of the ball than any other United player and draws more fouls due to his insanely fast feet.
I think your arguments are flawed and the wording of your quote is a typical anti-United bias that we
experience far too often in the media.
Rant over!
Jeff's reply
I thought it was me who did the rants on radio - it makes you feel better
though, doesn't it?
I agree with many of your points and concede that Ronaldo has been brilliant
I also accept that in the main, he has eradicated the diving aspect from his game.
The
inference would have been better made if it had read "he plays for one of
the Big Four". It was not meant as a dig at United in particular. Just a
feeling shared by many that the big clubs do get the bulk of dubious
decisions.
Just to show you that I have no anti-United bias, tonight I am off to speak
at an event for the former United players at Old Trafford!!
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Rob Powell, 14th April 2008
Hi Jeff
Thanks for having me on the phone on Saturday. I hope I didn't sound too much of a pratt but I was still buzzing about our excellent result at Darlington.
The stadium is very impressive. It is a pity the pitch doesn't match it.
I cannot see why the stadium was built so big. With the best will in the world, Darlo, like us, will always be a lower league club. There is such a gulf now between the Premiership and the other leagues that unless another Russian billionaire comes along, the best that clubs like ours can hope for is Championship football. I would not want it any other way. A nice 15,000 stadium would have been better with some terracing to create atmosphere. You cannot sing sitting down!!
All the best to you for next season. I don't fancy the long trip back to play you again in the play offs. I hope we can now go up automatically but we play the MK Dons on Tuesday and Peterborough on Saturday.
I hope for Graham Turner's sake we can do it. He has been the saviour of this club and deserves success after all he has done for us. Come on you Bulls!
Rob Powell
Jeff's reply
Hi Rob
It was a pleasure to have you on the show. You can tune in via your computer on the TFM Radio site. Also, you can keep up to date with my columns on my website. I also do an online fans Q&A session every Monday from 6-7pm at FansOnline.net.
I am actually a Boro fan but I also cover Hartlepool and Darlington for the radio station. Therefore I have become very keen on seeing them do well.
The stadium is a white elephant. It would have been a lot better building a 10,000 purpose built stadium like Scunthorpe, Walsall or Wycombe that could have been extended subject to further success.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Nick Cendrowicz, 13th April 2008
Jeff, you advertise the possibility of buying "Jeff's Controversial
Biography" online.
In what way is your book controversial? Is it because
you express a few opinions in a forthright and strident fashion and
therefore make the classic error of considering yourself "controversial"
as a badge of pride?
Jeff's reply
Hi Nick
They were not my choice of words but the choice of the publishers. As was the title.
It's something to do with catching the imagination and promoting sales I presume.
I do not consider myself to be controversial and never did. I gave honest
opinions and made honest decisions. If that makes me controversial then I
must be although personally I do not think it does.
Best wishes
Jeff
************************
From: Tom, 13th April 2008
Come on, what is everyone complaining about?!
I'm a United fan but that was a
clear penalty in the Liverpool v Arsenal match last Tuesday. Fabregas knocked
Babel off balance and then Toure, while making minimal contact, impeded
Babel. The intent was there.
Jeff's reply
Tom, the trouble is that fans and managers don't see things because
they don't want to see them. Comments like those made by Wenger post-match
encourage fans to believe that offences like the one you correctly describe
are not in fact fouls.
Best Wishes
Jeff
************************
From: Byram Crawford, 13th April 2008
Hi Jeff
Firstly, are you still fat?
Secondly, are you embarrassed by your silly claim that the jop were clapping
louder because it was your last game?
I'm not one of the 321 people who've actually read your book, it's just that
that comment is probably the most laughed at comment in the history of
comments.
Regards
Byram.
Jeff's reply
Thanks for taking the time and trouble to contact me.
Thanks for your
concern about my weight, I must admit that since I retired from active
refereeing I have put a bit of weight on - it's all the good living.
I presume that by "jop" you mean "Kop". It's an easy mistake to make when you are
too busy trying to be a clever twat. My claim was an attempt at humour,
obviously it has passed you by. It is a piss-take, obviously I knew that the
Kop could not give a damn about me.
Sorry you have not read the book. By the way, you missed the 25,000 off the
321 you quoted.
Anyway, back to school next week for you. I will publish your letter on my
site just so your mates can see what a silly boy you are.
Best wishes
Jeff
************************
From: Brian, 12th April 2008
How's things Jeff?
First of all I'd like to congratulate you on your book. I've
finished it and thought it was great, especially your chapter on the Cup
Final you reffed - the whole experience seemed amazing.
Just a few quick questions: Why do you think Fergie disliked you so much and
was it just you or did other referees experience similar cases?
I have also read his book and he doesn't mention you at all so you couldn't
have pissed him off that much.
Who would be the player in the Premiership who most stood out to you
regarding their good attitude? Who is an all round better player than the media
seem to have made out over the years?
One last thing, fair play to the witty replies you left some of those twats
who emailed you. Funny stuff.
Cheers Jeff, all the best.
Jeff's reply
I understand that Fergie is not happy with what I wrote in my book and also
some of the comments I have said about him since I retired. That's life
though - if I am asked for an opinion I give an honest one.
Whilst I was refereeing, and still today, I think Fergie has a love-hate
relationship with any official who has the audacity to give decisions
against his team. Quite often it is part of the mind games he tries
to play.
Like with Poll's book I think that to mention me would have given
credence to the fact that I actually existed!!
I loved refereeing Zola who was a gent on the pitch. Others included Gareth
Southgate.
Best wishes
Jeff
************************
From: Peter Owen, 12th April 2008
Jeff
In the early days of football, a penalty was given when it was seen that the hand to ball was a clear pre-meditated act, just like today's tackles!
Now it is simply a maze of choice and has no solid foundation.
However, when a wall lines up prior to a free-kick it is exactly that. Therefore, if players choose to jump about when the ball is on the move and it strikes any given arm it is, in my eyes, a 100% penalty.
That has a crystal clear foundation stone and perhaps you may follow that one up in kindness?
Cheers
Peter
Jeff's reply
I have spoken and written about this subject on many occasions.
When a player moves his arms to make himself bigger, in much the same way as goalkeepers are trained to do, this is a deliberate act. Therefore if the ball then hits the hand or arm I consider that to be a handball offence and punishable by a direct free kick/penalty.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Alan S Lawson, 11th April 2008
Now then Jeff, just a short line in response to your article on Rivals.
I think it's good that you have set the record straight with these negative comments that have been going on for a while now.
I personally think Darlo will still go up as apart from the top two, everyone is getting twitchy. I still believe we can finish third but it seems to me that this town does want success. I just wish the club would do more to promote the team.
I will be taking my little boy Jack on Saturday and hope he enjoys himself
like I do. I don't want him to be a plastic Manc - I want him to follow the
Darlo.
I just wonder if the doom and gloomers will apologise online if and
when we do go up.
The point of this is this: I believe that League Two is the hardest league to get out of and when we do go up, I think we can push on with DP and take a leaf out of Carlisle`s book and don't stop there.
Thanks for your time Jeff and keep up the good work. If no-one wants the
tickets I will have 'em mate.
Cheers
Jeff's reply
I think it is brilliant that you are taking your son and indoctrinating
him into supporting his home town club. Hopefully he will remain a supporter
for life.
I too think they can go up automatically, however just as a
precaution, I have booked my hotel in London.
Best wishes
Jeff
************************
From: Dave Jones, 11th April 2008
I've been a Darlo fan all my life and have had a season ticket for as long as I
can remember.
I can fully understand why the crowds are staying away despite
our lofty position as the football on show this season has been negative, full of
long-balls and uninspiring.
Whilst the result is all important for the die-hard
fans, you need to put on a show to attract the casual or neutral supporters
on a regular basis. Remember, the Boro fans stayed away even when McClaren won
a cup and took them into the top half of the league!
I'm not a fan of Dave Penney or his
methods but that doesn't make me any less of a fan. Come three o'clock on Saturday
I'll be there shouting the lads on, hopefully to a much needed win! COME ON
DARLO!
Jeff's reply
Each to their own Dave. When DP was manager of Doncaster Rovers I
loved watching their fast passing game. The work rate was exceptional and
they always provided entertaining football.
I don't know if the pitch ,the constant changing of the team and the
introduction of a magnitude of loan players has detracted from the style he
used to be known for.
As you say though, victory and promotion is all
important then hopefully the club can attract some players and play the
better quality of football we all desire.
Best wishes
Jeff
************************
From: Toby Yeboah, 10th April 2008
Hello Jeff
Have you ever actually played football or did you just get into refereeing
because you are a control freak?
Regards, Tony
Jeff's reply
Hi Tony
Yes I played football. I scored the winner in a cup final for the cubs when
I was ten.
I also played for St. Hilda's Boys club in the Cleveland Sunday
League and for Dormans Athletic reserves in the South Bank League. So you
can see I had extensive football playing experience.
It's funny that you mention the "control freak" aspect of my nature because my
wives and girlfriends have always commented on how I take control in the
bedroom. Mind you, none of them have complained!!
Perhaps my single mindedness helped me get to the top in all the professions
I have undertaken. I apologise if this upsets you but then again I don't
give a fuck. Enjoy your life.
By the way for acting as my "shrink" in this matter I probably owe you a
fee, please forward your invoice as I am a little short of toilet paper.
Best Wishes
The Control Freak.
************************
From Iain Richardson, 10th April 2008
Jeff, I am quite upset with the comments made by the Swedish Ref:
"Controversial referee Peter Frojdfeldt has revealed Arsenal's players knew
it was a penalty when Kolo Toure felled Ryan Babel in the decisive moment of
their Champions League quarter final with Liverpool.
Just seconds after Emmanuel Adebayor had given Arsenal the advantage with
seven minutes remaining at Anfield, Toure brought down Babel to hand
Liverpool a ticket to the last four.
Arsene Wenger has since labelled the penalty decision 'dodgy', although
replays of his players' reaction lend little support to the Arsenal boss.
And Frojdfeldt confirmed that he received little complaints when he pointed
to the spot, with Toure the subject of his team-mates' vitriol.
"I have no doubt it was a penalty," the Swedish official said.
"He pulled his shirt and the only ones complaining were the Arsenal players,
who were complaining at Toure.
"It was a very fair game in a high tempo. The atmosphere was fantastic.""
WHAT IS HE SAYING! What with the high profile of the 'Respect the Ref' campaign,
he comes out and says that because the Arsenal players didn't complain, he got
it right!! I think it's ridiculous and he is just asking for players to
throw their toys.
BTW... would you have given that Babel penalty?
Jeff's reply
Firstly I don't know why the ref is labelled as "controversial" just
because he made a decision.
It was a penalty, there was contact by the defender which brought down the Liverpool player and whether or not contact was intentional or not, that does not matter within the Laws of the Game.
I think, not for the first time, that Arsene made himself look a little foolish
with his post match comments. Obviously he was disappointed and he was still
angry as Arsenal did not get a penalty that they should have had in the
first leg.
I think you have taken the ref's words in the wrong context. He
was not saying it was a penalty because the Arsenal players did not protest,
in fact he stated "I have no doubt that it was a penalty". He is merely
commenting that the Arsenal players did not even argue.
Best wishes
Jeff
************************
From: Ken Stephenson, 10th April 2008
Hello Jeff
Do you think the FA will add an extra match suspension for the
"frivolous" appeal as they did to Boro's Aliadere recently?
I for one
highly doubt it as they are gutless and feeble when it comes to "Big Four",
although I see they have been brave in charging Ferguson and his assistant for
their disgraceful comments about Martin Atkinson and Keith Hackett.
Also, a
little reminder that the Toon are the North East's top team again. You Smoggies can
do us a nice favour and turn over the Mackems the week after we turn them
over!
Cheers
Jeff's reply
As you are well aware, there seems to be one law for the rich etc.
It was
interesting to see that Fergie came out and suggested that there should be
more respect for officials!! He will get a tap on the wrist but you watch:
Hackett won't have the balls to appoint Atkinson to another Man United game
this season.
So Newcastle are born again? They managed to beat Reading and Fulham at home
and win away to a Spurs side whose season finished after they won the
Carling Cup. The top side in the North East at times played the Champions
elect off the park last Sunday.
The sad thing is that we are really getting excited about who win finish
12th in the League. Personal local battle aside, I think that puts it all
into perspective.
Best Wishes
Jeff
Ken responds
Hello Jeff
You are spot on about there being one rule for the "Big Four" and another for the rest.
That is why it surprised me when refs like yourself got the big teams (although I am aware that you did not ref Man U games for a spell after you upset Ferguson). I say this because you made it clear that you were willing to send their players off and give penalties against them if it was correct to do so.
I read the part in your book concerning the incident with Ferguson at Newcastle with yourself and Uriah Rennie (it was rather stupid of Ferguson messing about with you two!) and I have to say that from your comments, the FA are even more pathetic than I thought. Ferguson should have been given a lengthy touch-line suspension for questioning your honesty and integrity.
I recall something similar happened with David Elleray because he upset Man United. He was treated just as badly by the FA and he was the best ref in his day in my opinion.
It is about time the FA and Premier League looked after the refs instead of pandering to Ferguson, Wenger and Co.
The League table says the Toon are the best team in the North East.
You are right that it is sad about who is going to end the season as N.E. top dogs but next season there will be no contest as under King Kev, the Toon will get a UEFA place no problems. You Smoggies will end in mid-table obscurity yet again and the Mackems will relegated!
Cheers, Ken
Jeff's reply
Ken you make so much sense and then spoil it all by getting ideas of grandeur!!
King Kev is clueless and the owner wants to sell. When will you Geordies realise!!
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From: Paul Hamilton, 9th April 2008
Apparently you claim that Penney will not be with Darlo next season. I
quote: "There's not a cat in hell's chance of Penney being at Darlo next
season".
That's a strange comment to make on radio given Penney is your mate.
I can only think that it is true, or was it said in jest?
Jeff's reply
It is actually a personal feeling Paul, although I sincerely hope that
I am wrong.
In hosting a phone-in show, I am obviously looking to get a
reaction from the fans but on this occasion it is what I feel. I can
definitely tell you that my comment is not based on any "inside" knowledge I
have.
I hope that Darlo get promotion then DP can move on to the bigger stage
that he deserves without recriminations from the fans.
Best Wishes
Jeff
Paul responds
Hello Jeff, I appreciate the response.
Like many other Darlo supporters, I am sick and tired of a tiny minority who appear to be looking for any excuse to criticise Penney. The vast majority (99.5%) of supporters are firmly behind Dave Penney.
We, the supporters, all want Penney to stay whatever the outcome of this season and although I do not listen to all of your phone-ins, I cannot recall any caller criticising him recently.
He does deserve better and I hope he gets it at this club. All managers receive blame from supporters when things don't go according to plan. Surely Penney has been around long enough to realise this?
Thanks again
Paul
Jeff's reply
You are right Paul. The criticism comes mainly from a few on the message boards and also from some who sit behind the dug outs.
If the club are ever going to progress they won't get a better boss than Dave.
Unfortunately any progress is likely to be short lived without a bigger fan base.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Stephen, 9th April 2008
Hi Jeff
With reference to the thread on the Uncovered site about Penney's future, I didn't get chance to listen to your show on Saturday as I was travelling back from the game on a minibus with fourteen rowdy lads.
It wouldn't suprise me one bit if Penney thought to himself "why do I bother".
We have some extremely fickle supporters. Some of the excuses for not travelling to Stockport was our current form but surely this is when the team need the support! If the players know sections of the crowd have lost faith then that can only rub off on the team in a negative way.
I ask people what divine right have we had to go up automatically. Yes we have spent money but Abbot has been injured for three quarters of the season and we don't have a goalscoring creative central midfielder. I can understand people saying we were in the top three but the season is forty something games - it's about how consistent we are until May 3rd.
My worry is that we will miss out. I'm impressed with Houghton's ambition but like any businessman, he will not remain whilst we are making a loss. I would be surprised if he was still here next season (especially if we are still in League Two) now he has had a season of seeing what our home crowds are going to be.
Congrats on the result and performance on Sunday. It was nice to see Southgate take it to the opposition. Sometimes in football, managers worry about what the other team are going to do rather than what their own team can do.
Cheers
Ste
Jeff's reply
I have written a detailed piece for Darlo Uncovered this week which addresses many of your points.
Most of the fans seem won over by the Chairman. At the outset I am sure he was hopeful that Darlo could climb the divisions. He was also expecting the crowds to come flocking in to watch a winning team. This has not happened.
He is a businessman and his money is to be made on the successful redevelopment of the site. I think he now knows that the football club will always be a drain on his profit margins. I await the outcome with interest.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Arthur, 8th April 2008
How many more times are we to see Darlo shoot themselves in the
foot? Darlo won't win the playoffs and if they are not careful, they won't
even make those as other teams are breathing down on us.
We have no strikers and little idea as to where to go now that we have hit problems.
Jeff's reply
Arthur
Let's be fair, the injury problems are something that no one could have
foreseen or indeed do anything about. The squad was big enough.
Let's hope
some are back fit and fresh for the final push. Keep the faith.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Alan, 7th April 2008
Jeff, you say that there isn`t a cat in hells chance that Penney will be
around next season.
Why would that be the case given that if Darlo fail to gain promotion
this season he will have acheived nothing and will have blown the
biggest ever budget given to any Darlo manager. That will look great on his
CV...
Alan
Jeff's reply
The budget may have been the biggest in the club's history but realistically, with inflation, wage demands etc, you would expect it to be. The wage bill will have covered the numerous loan signings but there was only capital to make one major purchase this season, Abbott.
Injuries and suspensions have hit the club badly but I don't think DP's
reputation in the game will be harmed that much even if Darlo don't go up.
Let's hope that the team pull it round and get promotion as that is what
really matters.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Richie Watts, 6th April 2008
Jeff, it was a good point for Pools yesterday. It was our first goalless draw for something like 90-odd games. Minus four big players, it was a welcome point.
As for those moaning Darlow fans, I bet they can't wait to say "I told you so" and that's another excuse for them not to go.
The fact is that Darlow have a winner in Dave Penney and they should get off his back - they know nothing about football. Pools stuck with Chris Turner over three failed play-off attempts and we went up in the fourth year. So it might take Penney longer than a couple of years. Stick with him and Darlow will eventually get promoted.
One final thing, are Darlow fans the most negative in the region? And can I enter for the Darlow tickets comp? Answer is a bull. If they won't enter their own competitions, us Poolies will.
From Richard who backed the Grand National winner in Hartlepool.
Jeff's reply
Those who travelled to Bristol said it was like a testimonial game. The remaining games may not be important in terms of play-off or promotion prospects but they are vital in terms of Danny making his mind as to who goes and who stays.
Playing Devil's Advocate, I could say that those Poolies who have constantly griped about Danny Wilson are just as bad as Darlo supporters. Also attendances this season at the Vic are nearly as bad as Darlo's.
Fans in general are fickle. Each team has a hard core who are the true supporters. I am not sure that Darlo are the worst, it seems to me that all three sides have fans or potential fans who like a good old moan.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: diljeet, 5th April 2008
Would you come out after a game and admit that you had made a mistake, e.g. if you were the ref in the Arsenal v Liverpool game regarding the Hleb pen?
Jeff's reply
Personally I think it would do no harm if refs were to give explanations for
major decisions after the game.
In fact on the contrary, it might actually
help. On the occasions that there is a query, an explanation may help people
understand. On occasions where mistakes have been made then it would
actually show that officials are human.
Unfortunately the powers that be
steer clear of letting officials do this. They see it as a sign of weakness.
That is rich coming from people who continuously show weakness when dealing
with persistent offending clubs and players.
In answer to your question, my statement post match would have been:
"Having seen the incident again, I now realize that I should have awarded a penalty kick. Unfortunately from my position and that of my assistant referee, we did not see the foul and therefore could not give it".
Best Wishes
Jeff
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Ryan Boyd, 5th April 2008
Jeff
In the current climate of players 'having a go' at the
officials, we are seeing a bit of a backlash from the men in black and the
media are keen to jump on the bandwagon as we've seen.
Is there a precedent for this that has already (obviously) failed?
In your opinion, do you really think this brave new 'take no shit' attitude is actually going to work, bearing in
mind the arrogant attitude of some overpaid young players with 'nothing to lose'?
Cheers
Ryan
Jeff's reply
It's a bit like goal line technology Ryan, it rears its ugly head then
quietly goes away until the next time. Despite the current outcry for action
to be taken, without sanctions and consistent application of penalties, it
won't go away.
Firstly we now live in a world where dissent to anyone in authority is the
norm. Also the football pundits make a living out of dissecting every
decision.
Whilst at present some are making noises to cut out the dissent,
they will soon find out that if the "Big Clubs" start complaining then the
action will be watered down. The authorities are scared of the big clubs and
as usual would bow to their power.
The Refs, scared of upsetting the clubs, would revert back to adopting a deaf
ear attitude and the dissent will continue.
I hate to be so negative but from my experience that is the way it is.
Best wishes
Jeff
Ryan responds:
Do you think that refs are evolving into willing pawns of the FA or do you think they have the balls to stand up to the dissenters but are being ordered otherwise?
I'm dead impressed you reply to everyone - there's some right twats though - I wouldn't give them the time of day!!
All the best
Ryan
Jeff's reply
I think that in order to get to the top, refs are adopting a safety first approach. If they upset the "Big Clubs" they are unlikely to get major appointments.
The FA appear scared of the clubs. There are too many administrators who wear two caps, i.e. club involvement and also FA involvement.
If the dissent and other problems in the game are to be sorted out then someone has to make a stand. The refs can't do it if they don't get support from above.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Donald Cox, 4th April 2008
That speedy backwards running that referees seem to have down pat - is it a
natural referee thing or did you all have lessons?
Jeff's reply
I don't think any of us were born with the ability or need to run
backwards.
Refs need to do this at times to see things such as a goalkeeper
releasing the ball upfield. Looking over the shoulder would not be as
beneficial and would make making quick progress more difficult.
So I suppose it is something that is encouraged in training, as is sideways
running for assistant refs. Some think this is why refs are more susceptible
to calf injuries.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Steve Richo, 4th April 2008
Have you heard the story aired on Ceefax that Boro are looking to sell
Tuncay?
Cheers
Up the Boro
Jeff's reply
I don't know whether it's the Boro trying to sell him or agents trying to
move him on.
You know the game, every time a player moves they get a nice
little earner. It's a case of here we go again. No wonder the genuine fan is
getting totally fed up with it all.
No doubt we will have another summer of being linked with everybody. Then we will
lose Schwarzer and finally make a panic signing or two before the
transfer window closes.
Keep the faith.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: DM, 4th April 2008
Dear Jeff
I attended the Liverpool v West Ham match in August 2001 and you awarded a penalty to West
Ham for a challenge on Todorov by Henchoz. You may recall that Di Canio then scored past Arphexad.
From my seat, I could swear that the ball was not on the spot.
Considering Liverpool had Arphexad in goal, and this is a huge disadvantage,
don't you feel you should have ordered Di Canio to retake it?
Thanks
Jeff's reply
Well you have had this on your mind for sometime now mate. A Ref
having the audacity to award a penalty against Liverpool in front of the
Kop!!
Whilst my memory is not as good as yours, as you suggest I was
probably a few yards away and possibly had a slightly better view than you.
Having said that you know my eye-sight!!
If it was off the line it might have been a couple of inches. Do you really
think that was such a major disadvantage?
I take it that you were not a big
Arphexard fan so perhaps I should have made them take it from the half way
line.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Joe, 3rd April 2008
Dear Jeff
Many people follow football in different ways.
Some enjoy the emotion that the terraces bring, whilst others watch from home and analyse the game via their televisions.
Some prefer tactics based football, whilst others prefer a Keegan side.
Personally, I'm a fan of referees. This is truly the best bit of the game.
I am interested by the pressure that is put on you by the players and how you cope with it, the decisions you must make and whether you get them right or
not.
The inconsistencies. Those tight black shorts. Seeing who can
brandish that red card the highest.
I also enjoy observing who enjoys pointing to the penalty spot the most: "Yes, that's a penalty" I hear you yelp with joy,
erection growing, shorts further tightening.
The men in black are what football should all be about, it's what we should care for.
I can see it now. A home section, an away section, and a referee section. "There's only one Jeff Winter, one Jeff Winter". Can you hear it, Jeff? The drunken
hoardes bellowing your name.
Because yes Jeff, YOU are the star of this film. You're Heath Ledger,
the linesman Jake Gylenhaal. We'll never forget you.
When the media are no longer interested and the home and away sections have
long forgotten your name, I'll be there, in my referee section, slowly
nibbling on my Winter shaped hotdog, thinking of you.
Hugs and kisses, your biggest (only?) fan.
Jeff's reply
What can I say? Fame at last and a true dedicated fan of my own.
Why don't
you run my fan club? You could hold the first meeting in a
telephone box. Just think, while you are in there you could pick up one of
those cards and phone a lady. Perhaps having sex with a woman, even if paid
for, would give you something to do in your life as you obviously don't have
much in it now.
French kissing your image as I type.
All my love Jeff.
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From: F Torres, 3rd April 2008
Quick one Jeff
Have you ever refereed a game where the twat that is Tim Howard has played?
If so is he such a foul mouthed fucker that you have to resist the
temptation to book the cunt?
Jeff's reply
Nice one, did you fall out with him at the torrettes classes?
F Torres responds:
See, I expect that's just the kind of response that has made many people hate you.
Jeff's reply
Obviously you can't take a joke. I felt that it was an appropriate response to your foul language filled statement. If that makes me hated then that's life.
F Torres responds:
Why couldn't I just have a normal response? Have you ever refereed Tim Howard and has he ever had a burst of swearing in your face?
Jeff's reply
Yes I did ref him and no I don't have any experience of him shouting and swearing. I have had experiences of other players shouting and swearing though and they didn't even have tourrettes.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Paul, 3rd April 2008
Alright mate.
This 12th man shite is wearing thin. They don't go down well with the North Stand crew. Ban them I say. What do you reckon mate?
Paul
Jeff's reply
I had heard that the 12th man were not popular on the terraces. This does disappoint me as they are not the Ra-ra's of old, they are just genuine Boro fans who want a better atmosphere at the ground.
I am off to Rangers tonight where everybody sings and the atmosphere is great. You actually enjoy yourself and it helps the team.
Nowadays at all three local clubs the moaners have the loudest voices. The Riverside is like a mortuary most games.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Mr Sandman, 2nd April 2008
Why do you think you're the most hated referee involved, or recently
involved, with the game?
Is it because you come across as an arrogant prick,
or is it the boring voice? My guess would be a combination of both and the
assumed idea that we care what you think.
Thank you for your time, Jeff.
Jeff's reply
Really the most hated? Well at least I am the best in something then.
Sorry
about the voice. The funny thing is that in the last four years, over 50,000 have listened to it on the After Dinner Speaking circuit and TV and radio keep ringing me up. So perhaps everyone does not agree with you. That's freedom of choice though, you will find the off button on your remote.
Thanks for your observations though but do you really think that I care?
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Ken Revie, 2nd April 2008
Hi there Jeff
I think it's fair to say we all miss you dishing out those colourful cards
regularly on a Saturday afternoon.
I was wondering if you ever fancied your hand at being a caddy. It's just
there's a big tournament in the Brown Trout this Sunday and my caddy has come
down with a slight case of death and I need a replacement asap.
Anyway, it's just a thought but I was wondering if you could recommend any hair
loss treatment for myself as I am, unfortunately, a little thin on
top. Actually, I tell a lie, I make Ray Wilkins look like Chewbacca!
P.S. Who do you think is going to win the Champions League game between Arsenal and
Liverpool?
I fancy Martin Skrtel, just in general.
ur beloved ex pga pro, kenneth.
Jeff's reply
Golf's a load of balls to me mate. The only good thing about it is that you
know that the husband is out of the house for a few hours!!
Try wearing a hat.
I think that the first game will be very tight and a boring goalless draw
would not surprise me. So get your money on five goals or more at the bookies.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Toby, 2nd April 2008
Dear Jeff
They say the reason behind Napoleon's desire to be so powerful was that he
in fact had a very small penis. Do you also have a small penis?
Apparantly Hitler had girth issues, too. Maybe it's the width that's
letting you down?
It all adds up and would explain you being such a self-important,
despicable cunt.
Jeff's reply
I am a little bit worried that you find my penis of so much interest.
Also your comments have devastated me and I now find no reason to
live. I am so sorry for any pain I have caused you and promise I will never
appear on TV or radio again, until I am next asked.
Oh by the way which team
do you support as perhaps me having the audacity to pass a comment about
them has upset you also.
Oh by the way don't bother replying cos I don't give
a fuck!!
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Marko, 1st April 2008
Hi Jeff
I would just like to ask why you feel the need to include the word "tosser" in almost all of your replies. Is this due to stupidity or just a lack of vocabulary?
Also would you like to remind us all how much money you make by whoring yourself to the media at any opportunity?
I look forward to your response although it will more than likely read: "I HAVE LOADSA MONEY, YOU TOSER."
Kind Regards
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