Soccer Referee Explains Action

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31080, 8 June 1966, Page 18

Soccer Referee Explains Action

He did not have a lack of regard for the welfare of the Western Club player, D. Torkington, Mr J. G. Gourlie told the Canterbury Football Association by letter last evening.

Mr Gourlie was criticised at last week’s meeting for what was considered a lack of concern for Torkington, who was ill and later had an operation. s Mr Gourlie, who refereed the senior match between Western and High School Old Boys on May 28, said that Torkington left the field ill and Mr Gourlie told his captain he could not be replaced. Torkington shortly afterwards returned to the field. Mr Gourlie said that about halfway through the first half, he “was aware that Torkington intended to be ‘injured' so that he could be replaced. Therefore, when he made an attempt, in front of me and

well out of his normal position, to breast an opponent and fell to the ground. I was ready to assess the situation. As I helped him to his feet. I said quietly to him: ’A good try, Derek, but a bit clumsy.’ ”

He resented the inference tha<. he had no regard for the player’s Welfare, said Mr Gourlie.

Suspended. The Rangers player, K. R. Olley, has been suspended “up to and including June 24” for persistent and ungentlemanly conduct in the first division game against Waterside on May 28. Olley was ordered off by Mr G. H. Royce. Top Referees. —The six top Canterbury soccer referees, in order, are:—Messrs C. B. Anderson, R. W. Cullen, K. van Oudheusten, W. Robinson, L. J. Tointon, and J. Sheffield.