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READER'S LETTERS MARCH 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: Pablo, 31st March 2008
Hi Jeff, I just wondered your opinion on something.
I was thinking about people's perceptions of referees and wondered if you thought it might be an idea for refs to be given taser guns to deal with unruly players.
Of course it could have different settings so when players give a bit of backchat, you could give them a small hit. This means that the player is not going to be so inclinded to abuse afterwards.
Also its strongest setting could be used when a player refuses to leave the field. That way, a quick tazer to the body and a stretcher could be called and in moments he's off. Everyone's happy.
Obviously the referee's assistant can't go unnoticed and he (or she if you
get very unlucky) could be dressed up in a clown outfit with a wand for a
flag. That way if a player confronts him/her, s/he could squirt water at them to
warn them off and even get one up on them with a crafty handshake with a
buzzer in the hand.
Also if you've noticed I can't spell taser/tazer, so have used both in the
situations above and was wondering if you might be able to tell me which one is
right for future reference?
Your's adorably
Pablo*
*Name changed for unsolved Northampton rape suspect reasons.
Jeff's reply
At last someone's talking sense. You should be appointed to the FA
straight away. Your ideas are inspirational.
By the way I think you spell taser/tazer as tosser!!
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Franck Mikael M'Bongo, 31st March 2008
1. Do you consider yourself to be Blaxican?
2. Which manager do you like the most out of Fergie, Wenger and Paul
"Let's Make A Video" Jewell?
3. Do you have very long arms or are those seperate pictures in the banner?
4. I have just noticed the quote "I feel like a fish with no water." Do
you believe that fish 'own' the sea?
5. What are you up to nower days? Lounging around the house? Giving your dog
a red card whenever it doesn't do a shit in a nice, clean formation?
Kind regards
Franck M M'Bongo.
Jeff's reply
1. Don't know what you are on about.
2. Probably Paul Jewell, I get videos off him.
3. Well spotted, I was given twenty-four hours on the rack for trying to kill tossers
like you!!
4. As long as they are well battered and come with chips I don't give a
shit.
5. I ain't got a dog. I'm earning a fucking fortune and for relaxation, I'm not dealing
with dog shit but dealing with shit emails.
Best wishes
Jeff
Franck Mikael M'Bongo responds:
Hi Jeff
It's Franck again. You may remember my last set of questions.
I
would, however, like to call into question your constant abuse of the word
"tosser". Have you considered broadening your horizons and
bringing some new words into your portfolio?
Yours sincerely
Jeff's reply
Love Franck X
Fair point Frank. How does knob suit you?
All my love Jeff xxx
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From: Eric, 30th March 2008
Jeff
Just to say 'well done' - I get the Daily Mail and I think Roy Keane must have read your excellent column!!
How long it might take for the 'Powers that be' to eventually make a positive move for the good of the game remains to be seen (if ever) but even the FA (very appropriate initials don't you think!!) can't keep burying their heads in the sand with this kind of adverse criticism by people within the game.
What is that old saying - "From little acorns great oak trees grow"?
Keep up the good work Jeff - you just never know.
Regards once again - Eric
Jeff's reply
I don't understand the Daily Mail reference Eric. I do believe that Graham Poll writes for them and if you are mistaking me for him then we are due to fall out!!
I must agree with your comments about Roy Keane though. He is growing on me as he talks a lot of sense.
Best wishes
Jeff
Eric responds:
Hi Jeff
Thanks for your reply.
My reference to the 'Daily Mail' was purely to let you know that is where I read Roy Keane's quite extensive article. I couldn't possibly mistake you for (and certainly wouldn't insult you by comparing you with) Graham Poll!!
Apologies for any misunderstanding.
Regards - Eric
Jeff
Jeff's reply
Thank goodness for that, I was considering plastic surgery and a makeover!!
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Matthew Broderick, 29th March 2008
Hi Jeff
First off, I'd just like to say I love your work.
Secondly, how do you trim that beautiful facial hair into such an amazing shape? As an actor I find it hard to find the right rhythm when it comes to play acting.
Can you suggest any tips from the talent you've seen in your day? Also, whilst play acting, will I receive a yellow card or any additional punishment from the FA?
I've received Oscar nods, as well as some American Film Awards, but never had the pleasure of a card from yourself. Would it be possible to have one posted out for my collection?
Also Jeff, I recently heard you were considered for a role in the new Bond film. Does this have any authenticity to it? It's just I was thinking of applying for the same role and wouldn't want to be disappointed at not getting it.
PS. I find soccer interesting and was wondering what channels I would need to pursue in order to become a Premiership referee or a competent referee's assistant (linesman!).
Regards, your friend and big time charlie.
The Brod
Jeff's reply
How come I have the idea that you are perhaps taking the piss a little here Brod?
Well if you have not got anything else to do in your life then I suppose it fills in the hours. The steady hand comes from not being a wanker, now that may be a problem for you!!
You will find that talent in any given field is born into you and it may be that your genes will not help you pursue your ambitions. Have you heard of the saying "You can't breed derby winners out of donkeys"?
I would be delighted to post a card out to you. Please be sure to let me have your full address and ward number and please warn nurse that it be arriving soon.
I think perhaps the Bond Role may have passed us both by, though if there was ever a remake featuring "Pussy Galore" I would definitely be interested.
P.S. To become a top flight referee nowadays you should just befriend Fergie, Wenger or Grant. Keep them happy and you could go all the way to the top.
Kind Regards your devoted pal and mega BTC.
Jeff
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From: Steve Richards, 27th March 2008
Hi Jeff
Firstly I would like to say how much you are missed as a Premiership referee, you were in my opinion one of the best and were never afraid to make decisions.
This leads me into my next question to you, what on earth is going on in the Premiership? It seems as though two very wealthy clubs can get away with just about anything these days!
I watched the Manchester United v Liverpool game the other day and Steve Bennett looked like he did not want to be there. I thought he looked under extreme pressure right from the start and although Liverpool are a big club themselves, you could see that they don't have the same clout as Manchester United.
Whilst I feel that the sending off was on the cards, I can understand how Liverpool must have felt (they really were getting no change). I feel the game is being ruined and has been heading that way for quite a long time now.
I just feel so sorry for clubs like Derby County and Wigan etc who really have no weight and no chance. It's almost like you are not allowed to win at Old Trafford or Stamford Bridge etc. I just wish there were more refs around like you...
Jeff's reply
Thanks for the comments Steve, although I am sure that there will be many out there who wholeheartedly disagree with you!!
I do feel that the refs are not strong enough with the big clubs but that is brought about by their own fears and the lack of support from above.
Steve Bennett is a good referee but I wish he could lighten up a bit. It does not hurt to smile and look as if you are enjoying it. And if not why do it?
The game has changed drastically since I retired and the characters in black seem to have disappeared also. It saddens me to see the current problems but this could be changed with strong leadership and support from the FA and refereeing organizations. Will it happen? I very much doubt it.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Davey, 26th March 2008
Hi Jeff
I just wondered what you thought of two MFC players' complete lack of respect towards their supporters. I was there this afternoon with my nine year old stepson and was as annoyed as much as he was upset. He has never met any of the players before and was looking forward to it.
Bridlington Davey
My post taken off fmttm:
MFC really know how to piss off their supporters don't they?!
I got to the shop in the town today at 3.30pm with the girlfriend and her nine year old son to find a queue already building up for the club's latest players' signing session which I'd read on the internet earlier today was going to be Rochemback and Alves.
We got to the shop to find that in fact it was only going to be Alves (there was no explanation why no Rochemback).
Just after four, a security guard from the shop came round the queue to say the player was running late.
Then at half four one of the female staff come to the front of the queue to say unfortunately Alves would not be coming. He was held up at the airport (what the chuff was he doing at the airport when he was booked for a signing session?) and we could leave our names and addresses for a signed autograph to be put in the post.
That's not much consolation when you've taken a nine year old boy who has never met any Boro players before to get his shirt signed.
We've hung around Boro all day today for this signing session as we live in Bridlington. What a waste of time that has been and one nine year old has been left upset whilst I am fuming at the moment. It's typical MFC, letting their fan base/supporters down.
Surely the club could have rang around some players and arranged for a last minute stand-in? At least a non-advertised player arriving would have been better than a nothing at all.
My email of complaint to the club which I probably won't even get a reply to (for what it's worth, but just wanted them to know how I was feeling at the time):
Hi
I've been supporting the Boro since 1990 and have held a season ticket since we moved to the Riverside.
All I can say is you really know how to disappoint/annoy your supporters. If the Cardiff performance wasn't enough the other week I took my stepson along to your latest signing session this afternoon with Rocky & Alves to find when we got there it was only going to be Alves. After waiting an hour we were told that the session was cancelled as Alves was "at the airport".
My stepson also has had a season ticket for the last two seasons and has never met a player or been to a signing session before as we live in Bridlington so was excited at the prospect of meeting the players.
He was so disappointed when news got round that he would not be getting his new shirt signed and meet the players and I am just as annoyed as he is disappointed. I can understand a player running late, but not to show up at all is disrespectful to us supporters when the signing session was announced well in advance.
All I can say is that with the rubbish we have been served up with this season and today's disappointment it's a good job I support my home town club through thick and thin (140 mile round trip every home game) and no doubt when the renewal forms drop through the letterbox I will be in two minds whether to renew or not (but my passion for the club will probably answer that question).
Regards
David
Jeff's reply
Hi Davey
I am sure that Dave Allan and his staff will be very embarrassed by this and that you will get a reply. The problem is that any apology does not repair the damage.
I cannot say that I am totally surprised. Down the years there have been numerous occasions where players have not done themselves justice.
Having said that the foreign players are usually pretty good. At present though, with feelings still very strong after Cardiff, it is a massive own goal by the club.
It will be interesting to hear their explanation.
Best wishes
Jeff
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ON "GRAND SLAM SUNDAY"
From: Keith Atkinson
Jeff
Ha'way Steve Bennett's performance yesterday.
Why do some refs not talk to players any more? A little common sense would be good too.
Can a player not ask with a smile on his face "What's happening?". He didn't swear and he was not aggressive, unlike Steven Gerrard who later in the game was quite clearly seen giving Bennett a mouthful including swearing at a free kick decision. Guess what?! Nowt happened!!
Would Pierluigi Colina have reffed the game in the same way? I dont think so!
Your thoughts please.
Keith
Jeff's reply
Keith, you are entitled to your opinion but you cannot be serious, can you?
Even allowing for the fact that as a supporter you might have a vested interest in a particular side and therefore decisions that go against them, surely you could see that Mascherano's behaviour whilst he was on the pitch was disgusting.
When he was quite rightly booked early on, his response was "f**k off". This is a phrase that he continued to use. Even at the time of the sending off, the ref tried to walk away from him, then warned him and still he went on.
I am not suggesting for one minute that he was the only perpetraitor in this game but he certainly was by far the worst.
Had it been Rooney behaving like that all game, I am sure you would have supported his dismissal!!
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Ken
Hi Jeff
I think yesterday's "Grand Slam Sunday" was very good for referees as Mark Clattenburg and Steve Bennett both had excellent games.
Clattenburg had an air about him and Bennett did every referee proud with the incident with Mascherano, unlike Mike Riley's feeble handling of Ashley Cole in midweek.
It will be very interesting to see what the FA do about Mascherano when he refused to leave the field and tried to confront Bennett immediately after the red card was shown.
I suspect they will be their normal feeble pathetic selves and take no further action. I think he should be given a ten match suspension.
On the Chelsea incident where Terry and co chased after Mike Riley, do you think the Premier League should deduct three points for every such incident and hand out three match suspensions to the players concerned? I suspect if this did happen, the first club to be given such a punishment would be somebody like Birmingham.
Jeff's reply
I do feel that on this occasion the FA will give Mascherano an extra ban for not leaving the field of play.
The points idea is brilliant but it will never happen. The "big clubs" would take the FA to the courts and undoubtedly it would be overruled.
If they seriously want it stopping then we will have a red card fest. But then everyone will turn on the refs and blame them for ruining games. It's a joke!!
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Crewecut
Having watched the Manchester United v Liverpool game yesterday, I was wondering if you think Mr Ferguson has a point?
Being in Canada I'm unaware of the "controversy" his latest whinge has caused.
My understanding was that he was (quite rightly) outraged at the treatment by opposition players of Ronaldo. Yet he seems to have given specific instructions to his players to kick and purposefully try to injure another professional (Torres) and when a teammate appealed to the ref for some sort of protection for the "skillful" players, he was shown a (second yellow) red card.
I would try to ask this to the self righteous Scottish **** myself but (unlike yourself) I doubt he would have the bollocks to reply.
Jeff's reply
I am sure he would not reply, especially if you called him a **** in your communication!!
The major problem we have is that the supporters and managers of clubs only ever see things from their own perspective. When an opponent gets sent off, it's okay but when YOUR player gets a red, it's a travesty of justice.
The truth is that they are all as bad as one another. Mind games, bad sportsmanship, win at all costs, whatever it takes.
It's gone too far and with the authorities being spineless and incapable of doing anything about it, the situation will probably get worse.
Come on though, the Mascherano sending off was not about his appeal over Torres being booked, it was a combination of his behaviour throughout the game.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Eric, 23rd March 2008
Jeff
I read with some amusement Alex Ferguson's statement of support for referees when he said that the reaction to refs similar to that of Chelsea's last Wednesday has only happened on one occasion by Man U players.
This was against Middlesbrough and that he was so mad that he tore into his players after the match and, as a result, it has never happened again.
If my memory serves me correctly, after that incident when Middlesbrough had been awarded a penalty and Roy Keane and co surrounded and shoved the ref, Fergie, when interviewed afterwards, claimed that he "didn't see the incident"!!
Alex Ferguson, like every other manager, is only interested in looking after the best interests of his club (and quite rightly so). To this end he (and others) will continue to use every dirty trick in the book so long as they are allowed to get away with it.
His show of support is about as sincere as Ashley Cole's pathetic apology and until the spineless FA is prepared to grasp the nettle and hit where it really hurts, i.e. dismissals and points deductions, then things will only get worse.
I am not knocking Alex Ferguson and his ilk, they simply take maximum advantage of a system that allows them to get away with murder. It is the existing Governing Bodies who are chiefly to blame. As in every walk of life, we are expected to obey the rules or suffer the consequences.
I have no doubt however, that the authorities will rattle a lot of empty cans and then make an example of the smaller clubs. Talk about ostriches!!
Regards
Eric
Jeff's reply
Hi Eric
I have to admit that I did smile when I heard Fergie's comments.
I am sure had Liverpool won on Sunday with a "dodgy" decision, he and his players would have been lining up to shake hands with the ref!!
Only two weeks ago he was castigating Martin Atlkinson. This is all part of his mind games - he tries to appear as the nice guy in an attempt to curry some favour for his club with officials. He must think everybody is stupid.
I agree 100% with you, the authorities are scared stiff of the big clubs and do not have the balls to deal with them.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Gazza, 22nd March 2008
Saturday will prove whether or not Southgate can or can't motivate his players. I have my doubts that he can!
Players don't need motivating against the big boys, it's against the teams scrapping for survival that they have to cut the mustard.
I'm a working lad from Park End (like Gibbo) and struggle to get to most matches. Why can't the club reduce the cost for the remaining home games and fill the ground up to cheer the lads over the final home staight of the season? Even if they charge £5 just for the kids, a full ground is better than a half empty ground at this time of the season.
I dont think we will go down as there are worse teams below us. I'd rather be in our position than Newcastle's. Imagine if they go behind at home to Fulham on Saturday. Wouldn't it be ironic if Keegan the Messiah took the team down and leaves them in the same position when he first went there as manager!
I will continue to support the lads but we do need to be more consistent and not letting the full houses down (Cardiff). The Boro faithful can only take so much and would rather see us go down sweating blood and tears than rolling over and dying.
How much longer to you think Southgate should be given Jeff? He now has moulded his team so if by ten games into next season we are in the same position, I think he should go and Gibbo should get a more experienced manager.
Jeff's reply
Well we won, so does that answer your question?
I honestly don't think that Southgate is the problem but you have to ask who would come to the Boro if Gibbo was to change the manager? The size of the club and therefore the size of his transfer kitty would always be a problem.
With regard to your idea for prices, in theory it's a great idea but what about the season ticket holders who have paid full whack? It will soon be time for renewals. What incentive is there to purchase when you know that with thousands of empty seats you will always be able to buy a ticket and that during the season the tickets are likely to be reduced in price?
It's all part of a bigger picture and to be honest, I don't know what the answer is.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Mike McClinton, 22nd March 2008
Hi Jeff
Do you think it's right that Dave Penney is loaning out Wainwright? The man is 100% Darlo and if he ever got to play in a position on the right rather than the left wing then he would be the player he once was.
I think we should play Joachim up front as a striker paired with whoever - which is why we bought him - and Wainwright on the right.
Dave Penney says he lacks commitment but I've never seen him play at less than full throttle.
I'm sending this to balance out all the letters you seem to get about Boro.
Mike
Jeff's reply
Hi Mike
First of all, I am delighted to get an email regarding Darlo. As you are probably aware I do my best to keep the programmes about all three teams in the region but Darlo fans are by far the quietest of the bunch. It would be great to have you phone the show one Saturday evening.
I agree with you, I like Wainy and think he lifts the team and the fans whenever he comes on. I also have the utmost respect for Dave Penney and I think it is obvious that he just does not fancy him as a player.
I do not know why but DP likes workers and very good pros. He got rid of the "drinkers" etc when he came to the club. I don't know what he has against Wainy but I think we have to accept that his days are numbered at the club.
I suppose as long as promotion is guaranteed it doesn't matter. He has created a new lease of life with JJ though and certainly has enough options up front and with JJ on the wing gives pace and also another goal threat.
Let's hope for a successful Easter and a push for the top three, we don't want the play-offs do we?
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Daniel, 21st March 2008
What do you make of the behaviour of Ashley Cole yesterday? Do you think it would have sent a good message if Riley had given a second yellow card for dissent? And what solutions do you see for the growing problem of referee abuse?
Regards
Daniel
Jeff's reply
Hi Daniel
I don't know if you saw or heard my pieces on Sky Sports News or TalkSPORT yesterday.
Unfortunately, the behaviour of Cole and indeed Chelsea did not surprise me. His pathetic apology yesterday, I don't think fooled anybody.
It was a great game of football. However, had Mike Riley sent him off, the media would probably have castigated him for overreacting and spoiling the game.
It's time the spineless authorities took action. Words are cheap, campaigns such as "Respect the Ref" are a waste of time if they don't take some form of action.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Tony MacDonald, 20th March 2008
Jeff
As a Boro fan, man and boy of 40 years, it's hard to express my disappointment. I've/We've been there before - four finals lost out of five and countless semi and quarter finals but this was the worst. The hurt lingers as this was our greatest chance of winning the FA Cup.
The aim now for the club is to stay in the Premiership. If this is achieved - and it's going to be difficult - the club and the chairman need to take a good look at the set up.
For years now I, and many others, feel that the club has no real affiliation with its supporters and many feel remote to its activities. It simply has not moved with the times and sat on its season ticket laurels. I am afraid to say it will feel the backlash.
The Chairman has a vision and the supporters share it but do not feel part of it. The reason for this is that the management and the executive running the club do not believe that it can be a force as much as the fans do and the chairmen as he is a fan and has his roots in east Middlesbrough.
I believe that as Middlesbrough Football Club is in the sixth biggest conurbation (Teesside) in the UK,with some 650,000 people, we can get 40,000 crowds plus.
The small town in Yorkshire mentality needs to go. One of the reasons we failed on Sunday was that psychologically, Middlesbrough Football club and its management and coaching staff could not cope with being centre stage and once again we failed at a critical moment.
This is the difference between us and the likes of winning clubs. We have punched above our weight granted but the question is can Southgate achieve this winning mentality or do we need someone at the club who has tasted success and knows how to win trophies and instil it.
P.S. Jeff, I was all set to ask you if TFM would support the laying down of an anthem with their studio and audio recording equipment. Myself and a few lads have a couple of singalong songs that would be great as anthems to sing before kick off.
Here's one below, the Cardiff defeat has dampened the spirits so may not be the right time but if interested let me know.
Cheers
TOTALLY GUTTED, TONY MAC
ON THE BANKS OF THE RIVER TEES
ON THE BANKS OF THE RIVER TEES STANDS FC MIDDLESBROUGH
AND WE'RE THE FAMOUS LOYAL SUPPORTERS, WE FOLLOW WHEREEVER THEY GO
AND WHEN WE'RE TOGETHER AT THE RIVERSIDE, THERE'S A MIGHTY ROAR THAT WE ALL KNOW
FROM THE FAMOUS LOYAL SUPPORTERS, SINGING FC MIDDLESBROUGH
Jeff's reply
Excellent points Tony, I will use your letter on air this Saturday.
As you are probably aware, I will do anything to help the atmosphere and to support the team. I do feel at the moment though the time is not right. Everybody is hurting and morale is at an all time low with the supporters.
At the moment the anger is taking over and people want sacrificial lambs for the Cardiff defeat.
Let's hope we can stay up and then try and build the momentum for next season.
Best wishes
Jeff
Tony responds
Jeff, a bit of a rant.
I realise we have had two excellent results of late but I can't understand why swept the Cardiff defeat, and probably the worst performance in Middlesbrough's history, under the table on your show last week.
Yes, we need to concentrate on staying up and a win on Saturday (never guaranteed with Boro) will more or less do it if Bolton fail again as games are running out.
People are still smarting about the Cardiff defeat and I was hoping you would have provided the opportunity for Boro fans to have a go at the club. The reason being is that the club need to get rid of this small town club mentality. So my rant is why are you talking about refs when everyone was bursting at the seams to outpour their thoughts on the Boro?
I am still livid and it will linger. Boro should wait and see the season ticket sales next season and the gate on Saturday for starters.
I will still support the club but what Lamb and co need to understand is that they need to have a bigger attitude which represents the expectation of the chairman and supporters alike.
This is the case not so much in the transfer market where I cannot fault them (apart from always being two world class players short of a challenging squad) but in the image and marketing of the club as a top 10/12 Premier League force and big club which I believe and so many others believe it is.
This attitude would have won us the game against Cardiff. They were a city club that came with a big attitude. The small town in Yorkshire mentality was centre stage on the day and did not cope with the Cardiff attitude. Our attitude cracked with being the favourite in the spotlight.
I know, I know, I will let it go now. It's only one game but I really thought you would cover it more so everyone could make there feelings on air felt if they wished.
Regards
Tony Mac
Jeff's reply
Hi Anthony
I thought via my column in the Gazette and the pieces that I did for ComeOnBoro.com, copies of which can be found here, you would have seen that like yourself and many other fans, I too was seething.
We also discussed it on Soccer Saturday and my half time entertainment on the Phone-In was "Embarrassment" by Madness to highlight the point.
After the Villa game though I felt it was appropriate to try and move on. It will not be forgotten and many may not renew their season tickets because of that game and the lost opportunities.
Refereeing decisions became very topical as well and had to be discussed. I try and set an agenda, but the callers dictate what we actually talk about. The problem is that many moan but will not come on air to make their points. The invitation is always there, 01642 616666 every Saturday from 5.30 till 7pm.
Keep the faith and I hope to hear from you.
Best wishes
Jeff Winter
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From: Eric, 19th March 2008
C'mon Jeff - I have an awful lot of time for your regular weekly articles in the Evening Gazete and I both appreciate and welcome your vast knowledge of the game and its rules.
However, please stop patronising disgraceful refereeing decisions. You know better than anyone that the rule on 'handball' is quite specific that 'handball must be deliberate' and no way could this be construed to be the case against Young.
The referee would never have dared to give that against Man United - it seems a blatant case of making an example out of the little boys.
The rules now often seem to be deliberately interpreted in favour of the big boys (another utstanding example was the Allediere incident - if that's how his name is spelt!!) and I feel it is now high time to involve the use of technology, which would bring back some fairness to a game which is being ruined by some awful decisions (many of which are purely human error).
Do you agree?
A fan of yours - Marske
Jeff's reply
If you have read my various articles on my website you will see that I agree with most of what you say.
By the way it's Aliadiere, I think.
I was not aware that I was patronizing refereeing decisions, I purely give honest views. I have stated that it should not have been a penalty against Young because the ball hit him on the back and shoulder.
What I did say was that players who spread their arms as they defend are guilty of a deliberate act by making themselves taller and wider in order to prevent the ball going past them.
When this happens and the ball hits them, I believe that is a penalty.
I do have my views on the "Big Boys" scenario and have spent many column inches explaining why I think that the largest clubs are running the game rather than the authorities.
I do not see a place for video replays in the game. It would kill the flow of the game and are not always conclusive anyway. When players stop making mistakes then perhaps refs will also. I will not hold my breath though!!
Hope you continue to enjoy the columns and the shows, we will not agree on everything.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Ken, 18th March 2008
What did you make of the Arsenal v Boro match, in particular the Aliadiere goal?
In my opinion it was correct according to the Laws of the Game because he was not offside when the final ball was played to him.
I think he should have been penalised in the first instance though because he ran towards the ball from an offside position, therefore interfering with play.
As an assistant in the Wearside League I would have signalled offside. A goal scored in those circumstances would cause World War Three.
What are your thoughts?
It certainly was not the only bit of controversy with the Adebayor "goal" being disallowed for offside when the ball was played back by a defender. My take on that one was the assistant was correct to flag if he was not aware who actually touched the ball to Adebayor but the ref should have overruled him as he was standing five yards away.
I have the utmost respect for Mark Halsey, he is an excellent ref but he got a few big, big decisions wrong.
Another example is the Mido sending off (he was looking at the ball not his opponent, it was a yellow card at most) and missing the foul leading to the corner from which Arsenal scored.
I also saw the Reading goal against Liverpool and I firmly believe the changes in the interpretation of the offside law was to prevent goals like that from being disallowed, as that goal probably would have been ruled out twenty years ago.
While I am on, who do you think will ref the FA Cup Final? My money is on Mike Dean, Howard Webb or possibly Mark Clattenburg.
Jeff's reply
I agree Ken, under the interpretation of the offside law, Aliadiere's goal was a good one. If you flagged him offside you would have been wrong. No matter what we think of the law you have to abide by it.
Adebayor's "goal" should have stood, the ball was played to him by a defender. It was probably impossible to see from the "lino's" position. The ref though, should have seen it and overruled the offside decision.
The question I pose is why did Mido have his foot that high in the first place? The contact he made brought it into the serious foul play mode and as such he can have no complaints about being sent off.
I agree that Boro should have had a free kick for the foul on Boateng that led to the corner from which Arsenal equalized. But that does not excuse the fact that Boro did not defend the resultant corner. Even after all that, it would still have been 1-1!!
The Reading goal was a good one as the players stood in an offside position were not interfering with play.
The Cup Final ref this year will be between Webb and Dean. My money is on Webb.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Norman Peters, 17th March 2008
Boro - fantastic spirit and a great way to bounce back.
Jeff's reply
The Southgate knockers will be devastated!! We're still not safe yet but with the spirit shown at Villa and Arsenal, I believe we soon will be.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Stan The Man, 16th March 2008
How long do we Boro fans have to listen about Gareth Southgate still learning his trade?
After giving the Boro yet another chance to bring me and the family back to the Riverside, we were let down with yet another inept gutless performance.
How long do we give Southgate? I don't think the chairman has it in him to give Father Christmas the sack. Southgate has had his chance. We need an experienced manager who can motivate people (Tony Mowbray).
Why did we give an £8million player away in Maccarone and buy someone in the same class for £12million? Don't tell me - we have to give him time as well!!
If that's the case I will be back at the Riverside when they have all had time to settle in. See you in the Conference!
Jeff's reply
I understand your disappointment at the Cardiff result and performance.
I am sorry I cannot and will not agree with the feelings about Gareth Southgate though. He has proved in the last seven days that he can handle the pressure and motivate the players.
The real supporters will stand behind the team. We will not go down and we continue to punch above our weight in a financially driven and overrated Premier League.
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From: Chris Roberts, 15th March 2008
Dear Jeff
Do you think that a referee should come out after a match to explain a controversial decision?
I`m not talking about a grilling or a series of questions and answers, just a case of "this is why I did/didn`t do that".
I don`t think it is unreasonable for a ref to show this level of accountability. There may be good reasons why not but I would be interested in your views.
Jeff's reply
I agree with you entirely Chris but it won't happen.
On some occasions, a ref giving the reasoning behind a decision might actually help people understand. The problem is that if the decision was against their team, they might listen but they would still disagree.
On occasions, a ref might have to admit he was wrong in hindsight. Again, this won't help the aggrieved fans but it would perhaps give an explanation as to why he made a particular decision.
When it comes to referees, everybody thinks that they should be perfect and that they should not be allowed to make mistakes. A ref who gets one big decision wrong in a game has had a nightmare and is labelled a bad referee.
I would have loved to have seen Steve Bennett on TV after the Villa v Boro game explaining his decision to give a penalty. After that, I would have had Mido on to explain why he twice failed to hit the target, which would have made the referee's mistake insignificant!!
The bosses won't allow the refs to go on TV though, therein lies the problem.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Ann, 14th March 2008
Dear Mr. Winter
I have not e-mailed you before but I was so incensed by some of the referee's decisions in the Hartlepool versus Huddersfield Town match on Tuesday evening - or should I say non-decision.
Referees should be made to watch the matches they have refereed. Sometimes I feel that Pools play an opposition with twelve or even fourteen players.
How does the FA expect youngsters to take up football when there is such blatant bias with certain football teams?
Jeff's reply
Thanks for contacting me Ann.
I was amazed at the crowd's reaction to the ref's decisions on Tuesday night. I know how partisan the crowd are and they can be accused of seeing things through rose-tinted spectacles but Tuesday left me more baffled than usual.
First of all let's not lose sight of the fact that Pools were superb and had they taken their chances, they would have been out of sight. The fans at times show that, despite their loyalty and expectation, they do not really understand the game.
In the first half Joel Porter ran into the back of an opponent on the halfway line and the fans bayed for a free kick. Did they expect the Huddersfield player to just get out of the way?
Likewise when Andy Monkhouse ran into the penalty area and could not get past the two defenders, who had the audacity not to move aside and let him go past them?!
In the last couple of minutes when we were all getting anxious, Andy Monkhouse was fairly challenged then a few seconds later, Pools committed a foul which put the defence under pressure.
Did you notice the Pools players reaction to these two incidents? There was not a murmur.
I was approached by a fan at the end of the game who wanted to ask me a question. He then gave me a mouthful and was not really interested in my answer.
I spoke to Ritchie Barker, a player who does know the game, and he thought that the ref had had a good game and got the vast majority of decisions correct. This is a fact that I concurred with.
Having read my response, I am sure that you will not agree with my comments, but I, like you, have an opinion.
Mine is based on twenty-five years of refereeing experience and is from an unbiased angle. I am capable of seeing fair play, even if I am supporting one particular team.
Keep on enjoying your football and supporting the side but please realize that every decision will not go our way and on many occasions neither should they.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Mark Halsall, 13th March 2008
Hi Jeff
I recently picked up on your comments that the top teams practically pick the refs nowadays.
Although I don't consider my team, Everton, to be one of those who can control the FA in the way the other top three (and Liverpool) can, it is interesting to note that we haven't had Mark Clattenburg at any position in one of our games since his performance in the Merseyside derby in November.
I thought that refs were allocated to matches on a random basis, yet you can't ignore that the supposed top refs continually get the big games.
This would suggest that Keith Hackett doesn't have complete faith in all the refs and the random allocation system.
I would appreciate your thoughts on this.
Regards
Mark Halsall
Jeff's reply
I once sent off Roy Keane for Manchester United and did not referee that side again for two years!! You take my point.
The powers that be decide for a variety of reasons who does or does not referee games. Obviously at times, it is sensible to keep refs away from clubs after a major controversy. You will probably find that Clatts will ref you again away from home first but he will come back to Goodison eventually.
My point is that when a manager like Sir Alex or Wenger, as Mourinho did previously, castigate a ref in public, often without good cause, then the authorities do not send that ref to that team for a while.
Therefore, by their outbursts, they are virtually picking who they want or don't want.
The Premier League and FA should take no notice of the clubs and appoint who they deem appropriate.
The problem with Keith Hackett is that he tries to keep everybody happy, especially the clubs and he should not do this.
With regard to the top games, only the best referees are selected for these.
Therein lies a problem - we have a shortage of top class refs with the experience to officiate the big games, so the same few get them all the time. This does not help them or indeed the clubs.
The fact that there are insufficient refs with the experience to do these games is Hackett's fault as he has not brought through enough officials to gain experience to take over from the many top flight refs who have retired in recent years.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Toby Higgins, 13th March 2008 (as replicated on ComeOnBoro.com)
Dear Middlesbrough Football Club
Firstly, let me be the first to congratulate you all. Thanks to you, I've probably experienced a totally new sensation for the first time. Never before have I felt so let down and so disappointed by something I hold so dear to my heart.
The bulk of my anger (and the anger of every other fan) is pretty clear. You don't need me to tell you that one shot on target in ninety minutes at home to a side sitting in the midriff of the country's second division is not good enough.
Had we lost in the same manner that Chelsea and Manchester United had done on Saturday, then maybe this pill would be a little easier to swallow as at least we would have put up a fight. The entire playing and coaching staff rolled over and died in front of Cardiff, in front of the BBC cameras and more disappointingly, in front of their own supporters.
What disappoints me the most is that we, the fans, gave everything you could have ever wanted from us. Not only were we there to capacity but we supported you in the way you asked us to and you let every single one of us down.
Events of Saturday night clearly affected the fans as we believed we could genuinely win the FA Cup. It clearly affected the players too and that is unforgivable. Call yourself professionals? You're not fit to wear the shirt.
Here's the pisser. When we sold out our stadium, we had no idea that Manchester United and Chelsea were out of the Cup and that we would be second favourites to lift the Cup with three rounds left to play. We turned up just wanting our chance at Wembley, our big day(s) out, our fair shot at lifting the Cup. You have taken all of that away with the worst performance I've seen from any Boro team in my life. Every single one of you bottled it.
You had the chance to permanently win back some of the 10,000 extra fans who turned up on Sunday to support you. You crave a packed stadium, we gave you one and that is how you reacted. When do you think you're going to see the Riverside full again? You've lost those 10,000 fans, some of them probably forever.
You've lost me until next season, at least. At the start of this season I was forced to give up my season ticket after six years. This season I've seen us lose at home to Blackburn, West Ham, Everton and Reading (goals scored one, points scored zero). I did, however, see us beat Sheffield United.
I've been to see us lose at Manchester City, draw 0-0 at Bolton and draw 1-1 with Reading. That's eight games, four goals and one win for hours and hours of travelling and a financial layout of probably somewhere near £300. But I always came back for more because like thousands of others, I love this club and follow it always.
But I refuse to pay money to watch us again this season. You don't deserve my support. I fully expect the record for the lowest attendance to be broken between now and the end of the season too. I'll always support and love the Boro but Sunday really made me wonder why. There are those whose love for the club is not as strong as mine and they could be gone forever.
Maybe to the players, Sunday's defeat cost them a game at Wembley and the chance at another medal to stick in their trophy cases in their million pound mansions. It has cost the club so much more; namely the respect of its fans for the players and staff.
Sporting Glory? Oh, the irony.
The scant consolation is that you didn't drag us all the way to Wembley to put us through that. I mean it when I say I never, ever, expect to see a Boro side look as uninterested and play with as little passion and charisma as that again.
What worries me the most is that when I go back to watch us next season, it might be as a Championship team.
Yours (forever),
Toby
Jeff's reply
Toby
Your letter sums up the sentiments of all true Boro fans. Keep the faith. We won't go down and let's hope that the spirit shown at Villa will be evident for the rest of he season.
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From: Brad Luettke, 12th March 2008
Hi Jeff
I was just wondering if you could shed some light on something for me.
I was away at Wycombe on Saturday and their first goal came from an overhead kick from Leon Knight.
Now I have no problems with that and don't want to see players being penalised for performing a good bit of skill, but I was wondering when a high foot becomes a dangerously high foot and therefore commits a foul.
When Leon Knight struck the ball, Ryan Valentine's head was very close, if not struck by Knight's boot.
As this resulted in a goal, the referee didn't award anything but if it had gone wide, would the referee have pulled it back for a free kick to Darlo? Or would Ryan have had to take a full on boot to the face from Knight in order to win a free kick?
Also, does it depend on the proximity of an opposition player to the high foot as to whether the referee will stop play for this?
What is in the FA rules about high feet and what's your personal opinion on the matter?
Thanks for your time.
Brad Luettke
Jeff's reply
Hi Brad
Do you know something, when I watched The Championship I thought exactly the same thing.
An indirect free kick should be awarded against a player whose actions are deemed dangerous. An overhead kick is an excellent bit of skill but if the foot or feet are dangerous to an opponent, then a free kick should be awarded.
On this occasion, despite it being an excellent piece of opportunism, I thought the action was dangerous and the goal should have been disallowed and a free kick awarded to Darlo.
This action is immaterial as to whether a goal is scored or not.
One point from two away games, with the other three sides all winning has not been a good week.
Let's hope for three points against Grimsby and that some of the others slip up. I think this will go to the wire this season.
Why not give me a call on Saturday evening (01642 616666).
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Graham James Davies, 12th March 2008
With respect Mister Winter, your comments yesterday on the Alan Brazil Breakfast Show on TalkSPORT were incorrect.
I would like to correct your ignorance with the correct addressing of titled people. It is not MISTER Ferguson, it is SIR Alex Ferguson.
Jeff's reply
I take your point Graham and when Mr. Ferguson (for whom I have tremendous respect for his achievements in football) starts behaving like a knight of the realm, then I will address him accordingly.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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THE BORO FA CUP FALLOUT, 11th March 2008
From: Olwyn McPhillips
What an embarrassment! Call themselves football players?! My nine year old grandson could have done better!
Jeff's reply
Hi Olwyn
Your grandson must be some player!! I know what you mean though. Typical Boro.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Nicola Pearson
Mr Winter
I would like to thank you for your impassioned pleas to the Boro fans at half time yesterday. I think at that point a large number of the crowd needed a kick up the behind to support their team rather than barrack them, so thank you for your efforts.
It was a bitterly disappointing result and it was a poisonous atmosphere generated by the fans at times, but thanks for expressing your views and trying to get the fans to back the team.
Regards
Nicola Pearson
Jeff's reply
Hi Nicola
I really do appreciate your comments, unfortunately a small minority do not agree.
On some of the message boards I have come in for some criticism, being called Delia and saying that my words were cringeworthy.
That sums up some of our so called supporters. They are only happy when they are moaning.
We are all hurting at the moment but some who actually know nothing, believe they can pick a better team and employ better tactics, or so they believe.
The Riverside has become a graveyard with no atmosphere the majority of the time. The team and their performances do not help but I thought we could have at least tried to lift them.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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THE BORO FA CUP FALLOUT, 10th March 2008
From: Fletch
Jeff, sack the bloody lot I am gutted. Fletch
Jeff's reply
Everybody is mate - once again we have been shafted.
It was our best chance ever of us actually winning the FA Cup. Now we have a relagation battle that I am starting to doubt we can win either.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Norman
Enough is enough - to waste a chance of the town going to Wembley is a crime. The management of MFC should hold their head in shame.
Norman
Jeff's reply
It was the last straw for many Norman, we were pathetic.
I blame the players, surely they did not need motivating for a game like that. They are proving that they are just not good enough.
I am now concerened that they don't have enough about them to save us from going down.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Annie
Hi Jeff
Mr Gibson looked a sorry sight. He has lost the plot and Southgate must go.
Annie
Jeff's reply
And should he take all the players with him? Can Southgate really be blamed for players who showed no desire or ability?
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Annie
Hi Jeff It's time for Mr Southgate and Mr Cooper to step away. The word clueless springs to mind. The performance was inept and embarrassing and with a worldwide TV audience, it can't get any worse.
Annie
Jeff's reply
The word embarrassing is the word I am using in my Gazette article this Friday. The country was laughing at us.
It can get worse though, we can get relegated.
Best wishes
Jeff
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From: Ken, 6th March 2008
Hello Jeff
When the Toon are at their worst you Smoggies still struggle to beat us! You only scored with an offside goal.
Seriously I saw the Makelele challenge at the weekend and that foul was far worse than Taylor's on Eduardo in my opinion. I thought Taylor's foul was badly timed and not malicious. Makelele "jumped" into his challenge.
The FA should investigate that incident, it was disgraceful.
Jeff's reply
Don't worry, you won't have to play us next season - unless we draw you in a Cup competition!!
I agree entirely. Not for the first time a Chelsea player has made a challenge like that.
Why won't the FA intervene, I wonder? It is pathetic, they should charge him and ban him irregardless of what the Referee did or did not do on the day.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Peter, 4th March 2008
Hi Jeff
I have only just seen the highlights on Match of the Day.
I thought Howard Webb was outstanding and if divers were correctly punished then Downing would have walked.
My hope is to see Webb referee the European Cup Final.
Cheers
Peter
Jeff's reply
As it is Howard's first major tournament this year I doubt that he will referee the Euro 2008 final. Likewise the Champions League may be a bit too soon for him.
I fancy him for the FA Cup Final this year. I think it's between him and Mike Dean.
One thing is for certain, if he continues as he is doing at present, he will achieve all these honours one day.
Best Wishes
Jeff
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From: Richard Earnshaw, 3rd March 2008
Has there ever been a piece of personal abuse directed at you that has remained stuck in your memory over the years?
Being a Leeds fan and having seen my team subjected to absolutely scandalous decisions in matches you officiated, it would be nice to know what your Achilles heel is...
Richard
Jeff's reply
I will answer your question Richard as the first part is good. It's a pity you had to spoil it with the bias you show towards me. It's ironic that, when it is probably what you are accusing me of.
Firstly, I struggle to recall any scandalous decisions made against Leeds, although there were maybe ones that you did not personally agree with.
Regarding personal abuse, it is never really taken as personal. It's just a noise made by fans who would rarely ever have the bottle to come up to you and say it to your face.
That is why I don't think of it as personal.
Probably the worst abuse I ever received was by letter from an alleged Liverpool fan, ironically living in Leeds, who wrote suggesting that he hoped that myself and my family died in a car crash.
Since retiring and via this site I upset the Geordies and one "fan" emailed me to say that he hoped I die of cancer.
That's the problem you see, some are very capable of being malicious and vindictive from behind a pen or keyboard or even in numbers on a terrace.
It certainly never bothered me and neither does your innuendo that I was not fair to Leeds.
Enjoy your football
Best wishes
Jeff
Richard's response
Thanks for your response and I take back the scandalous comments. You have a great sense of humour and I'm really enjoying the site!
Thanks again
Richard
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