|
What actually went on we will probably never know, but allegations of racist abuse and head butting were strongly refuted by Nicky Barmby today as the matter was dicussed at length in the weekend and morning papers.
What was clear from the TV evidence was that Boateng did spit on the pitch, but whether or not it was intended for, or actually hit a Leeds player, is not clear. Boateng also manhandled the linesman, for which he could also get into bother with the FA.
What I don't agree with is the comments and accusations made by and in the media, that will, without doubt prejudice the decisions that the 'men in suits' make at FA headquarters.
Football was always a mans game and what went on, on the pitch, was sorted by the referee. If he and his assistants happened to miss an incident the player was deemed to have escaped, but not anymore.
With camera's rolling thoughout every game and from just about every conceivable angle the players can hardly breathe without being accused of something.
Arsenal's Patrick Viera received a six week ban for spitting at West Ham's Neil Ruddock, while Boro's Gianluca Festa recieved a mandatory three match ban after being sent of in the Wear-Tees derby last year at the Stadium of Shite.
This was more of a 'hand-bags' case, but the saga will rage on until the FA receive a report from referee Rob Styles. Lets just hope they see sense and hand out a the necessary punishment, if any at all.