By Nathan Jackson
September 28 2010

Despite the best efforts of the Imps and Burton Albion, chances in the match at Sincil Bank were a rarity due to one of the most whistle happy referees seen in recent seasons. It was an improved effort from the Imps and City enjoyed the better of the few chances that there were in the game.

Burton started the game brightly as ex-Imp Pearson ran through on goal, only to lift his effort over the goal. Burton continued their fine start with a succession of free kicks, City's first attack saw O'Keefe shoot wide, the Imps hoping for the 8th time lucky, City losing the 7 games which he has played for the club.

The first of a series of baffling decisions came when Swaibu won the ball in midfield and play continued for about 20 seconds, the Imps keeping the ball, before the referee decided to pull play back to the point of the foul. It didn't take long for a strange second as Pearson was fouled near the corner flag, the referee indicated an advantage and allowed Pearson to run into the area and have a shot.....before then pulling the play back for a free kick, how is the team with advantage having a shot not good enough?

McGrath almost hit in from a long range effort before Keltie was booked for a foul on Harrad, the striker hitting his free kick over the bar. Jarrett also hit a long range free kick into the stand. Neither side could find an opener before the break, although Hutchinson did almost hit in a half volley from 25 yards.

Arguably the best chance of the game came early on in the second half as a dummy from Hutchinson let in O'Keefe, the midfielder had plenty of time and hit a vicious shot goalwards only for it to be palmed away by Legzdins.

Burton were adament they should have had a penalty as there appeared to be a handball in the penalty area, but the referee ignored it. City did have half-hearted appeals for a penalty themselves a few minutes later as Hutchinson fell in the area, although it did look a bit theatrical.

A brilliant tackle from Swaibu on Harrad prevented a likely goal before substitute McCallum had a chance from 6 yards, only to fail to connect with the ball.

It wasn't a game that will take pride of place in most fans' DVD collection.

0-0 to the referee

Discussion started by theimps.ka (IP Logged), 28/09/2010 22:32

theimps.ka
28/09/2010 22:32

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