Shipston boss Hedderman left 'bemused and baffled' by referee

SHIPSTON Excelsior manager Steve Hedderman said he was left ‘bemused and baffled’ by Kenneth Cox’s refereeing performance in last Saturday’s Midland League game against FC Stratford.

The teams fought out a thrilling 4-4 draw in a full-blooded derby at London Road.

Shipston had rallied from 3-1 down to lead 4-3, but Daniel Kirby’s late goal ensured the visitors claimed a point.

But it was the performance of the referee that proved the big talking point, with Cox sending three players off during the second half.

Hubert Skiba was sent off after receiving two yellow cards, while Martin Kendashki saw red for an apparent bite on Tom Coles.

Coles himself was then given his marching orders for an alleged headbutt in retaliation.

Hedderman said: “It was a great game, but the referee’s performance has left me bemused and baffled.

“The bloke didn’t have a clue and he ruined the game.

“In the first half he just seemed biased. He was calling all of the FC Stratford players by their first name.

“He (Cox) also complained about our facilities, pitch, the size of the goals. That showed you straight away that he was going to be an old headmaster type.

“The two assistant referees (Matty Hickey and Robin Allen) were outstanding in comparison.”

Shipston head to Barton United this weekend, while FC Stratford go to Castle Vale Town.

More reaction in this week's Herald.