RateTheRef

FA Cup - 3rd Qualifying Round Replay
Wingate and Finchley v Corinthian Casuals
Tuesday 5th October 2021

Referee:- Daniel Simpson (Middlesex) assisted by
Colman O’Meara and James Sedley.

On a cold, blustery night, I made my way across North London to watch this replay along with 221 other supporters.

Very good game of football, no histrionics by the players, the players seemed interested in playing competitively and properly and consequently made the referee’s life extremely straightforward.

Very impressed by Mr. Simpson. Tall, with bleached blond hair and had a presence and natural authority which ensured a smooth flowing game. He put in a foot perfect performance, positioned himself well and only issued one yellow card, which was fair enough for a late challenge. He added on 7 minutes to the first half for a nasty looking injury to a Wingate and Finchley player, and only 2 minutes at the end.

Corinthian Casuals were worthy winners by 3-0, all three goals well taken, including a 35 yard worldy that wouldn’t look out of place at a higher level. As I said, the referee let the players play, and they let him referee, helping to make a good, fair contest.

Not sure what League Mr. Simpson officiates in, but doing some detective work, he is at Level 3. One to watch out for in the next few years on the strength of tonight’s display.

Very nice evening, and good to be watching live sport after the last 18 months we’ve all endured. Wingate and Finchley are a very decent, welcoming club and it’s good to take in a grass roots game played in the right manner.