Top ref hits out at 'animals'

Bennett fears for future of game

Last updated: 14th November 2008

Top ref hits out at 'animals'

Bennett: Wants respect

Away from the pitch, most of us would never fire such offensive verbal abuse at another human being.

Referee Steve Bennett
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Premier League referee Steve Bennett has accused some players and managers of acting like 'animals'.

With the treatment of officials under the spotlight and the Football Association working to improve the situation with their 'Respect' campaign, Bennett insists the initiative needs to receive full support from all quarters.

The Kent official, who is due to take charge of Chelsea's clash at West Brom on Saturday, fears for the future of the game if the situation does not improve.

Frenzied

Bennett told the Daily Mirror: "Away from the pitch, most of us would never fire such offensive verbal abuse at another human being.

"We would never act like ravenous animals smelling blood or remonstrating with frenzied and vulgar gestures. Regrettably, football - the sport acknowledged as the beautiful game - is tarnished when this type of behaviour occurs.

"The FA's Respect programme has gone a long way in helping the current situation. Match officials must feel confident and safe when they officiate at any level.

"It has highlighted the need for everyone in the game to have a more responsible approach to the welfare of the referee."

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson and Newcastle interim boss Joe Kinnear are just two top-flight bosses to have been involved in incidents with officials in recent weeks, and Bennett believes the authorities must always take firm action.

Scapegoats

He added: "Dealing with these situations often brings further conflict, but we can't afford to turn a blind eye.

"As soon as the popularity of the modern game began to attract large crowds, disputes became commonplace, with officials often made scapegoats.

"Today, compounded by a general deterioration in social discipline, abuse of officials across the country results in fewer being prepared to take charge of matches."