PORTSMOUTH boss John Mousinho admitted his side’s goalless draw at home to winless Cheltenham could have been called off after an afternoon of drama involving the referees’ team.
A fan had to come out of the stands to run the line after two officials hobbled off injured leaving the game in doubt.
Fourth official Stephen Brown took over in the first half, but then he had to be replaced early in the second after a tannoy announcement appealed for a qualified referee continuing to volunteer. Thankfully one stepped up, which led to the game eventually with 21 minutes stoppage time.
Despite the lengthy addition, side could find 8 a breakthrough.
Mousinho said: "I thought 1 there was a chance the game could be called off because nobody knew who the fan who took over's affiliation was with.
"I was happy because he came down from our South Stand so fair play to Cheltenham because they could have refused to play on.
This story is from the August 20, 2023 edition of The Football League Paper.
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This story is from the August 20, 2023 edition of The Football League Paper.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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