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#Post#: 97803--------------------------------------------------
Re: Sat 22nd – Thu 27th NOV 2025
DIR By: Ryanellis
Date: November 22, 2025, 3:28 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
--- Quote from: Acme Thunderer link ---
>
> Crewe Alexandra FC (First Team) v Chesterfield FC (First Team)
> Football League 2
> Referee: Rock, David
> Assistant Referee: Forder-Hay, Jack
> Assistant Referee: Smith, Daniel
> Fourth Official: Henry, Scott
>
> A bit of a mixed bag from David Rock. For the first 35 minutes
or so, he was fine but, after correctly awarding a penalty to
Crewe from which they scored, David seemed to lose the plot, and
the boos directed towards him at half time were from both sides
of the stadium. Fortunately, the second half was better and it
was good to see him cracking down on dissent with yellow cards.
Rather 'old-school' in looks and actions, he nevertheless is as
fit as some of the younger ones I've seen at Gresty Road and he
did try and explain some of his decisions, which we don't always
see from the younger and more robotic referees. When David
awarded the penalty to Crewe, for me it finally buried the
ghosts of Cambridge in 2018 when his decision to penalise Ng for
a 'foul' in the penalty area was certainly one of the most
shocking I've seen at the Alex, and at the same end as well.
Overall, I think David and team can feel satisfied with their
performance this afternoon, and what a game, well done all three
teams.
>
--- End Quote ---
One thing to add based off this superb report - our striker got
taken out off the ball on the counter attack, yet no yellow was
awarded. Then, our midfielder takes out their player off the
ball by pulling his shirt (same as ours) yet he gets the booking
for it? No consistency in those two bookings.
#Post#: 97823--------------------------------------------------
Re: Sat 22nd – Thu 27th NOV 2025
DIR By: Charlieboy
Date: November 23, 2025, 6:04 am
---------------------------------------------------------
--- Quote from: ECity77 link ---
>
> [quote author=ECity77 link=topic=7413.msg97604#msg97604
date=1763398850]
> Really happy with Abigail Byrne. I will be there to watch the
six pointer match between Port Vale and Plymouth. I saw Abigail
once last season and I thought Abi was the best referee at Vale
Park last season. Just no nonsense!
>
--- End Quote ---
Have to say it was an average performance today. Nothing majorly
wrong but a times a bit inconsistent for both teams. Thought all
the yellow cards were spot on. The one bit that stood out was,
Abi doesn’t seem like she is going to give a foul and then a few
seconds later she blows up. Not sure if this is to see about
playing an advantage. But on the whole it was a very poor game
of football. Can easily see why both teams are in the relegation
zone.
[/quote]
Completely disagree, thought she was outstanding, she controlled
the game with the minimum of fuss , treated both teams fairly
and consistently, all cautions were spot on and she only stepped
in when necessary, also highly noticeable was the behaviour of
the players was much better and little dissent imo a great
reflection on her performance,my only gripe was not getting to
grips with the port vale player who decided to go injured 1 cm
from touchline and sit there causing a 4 min delay, absolutely
no reason not to leave the field for treatment other than
gamesmanship and disrespect for the officials who all indicated
he should move off the field, then only 3 mins added at end of
half . Other than that excellent and without a shadow of doubt
the best referee I’ve seen in league one this season by a
country mile.
#Post#: 97864--------------------------------------------------
Re: Sat 22nd – Thu 27th NOV 2025
DIR By: Tupist
Date: November 24, 2025, 2:48 am
---------------------------------------------------------
[quote author=Acme Thunderer link=topic=7413.msg97797#msg97797
date=1763843490]
Crewe Alexandra FC (First Team) v Chesterfield FC (First Team)
Football League 2
Referee: Rock, David
Assistant Referee: Forder-Hay, Jack
Assistant Referee: Smith, Daniel
Fourth Official: Henry, Scott
A bit of a mixed bag from David Rock. For the first 35 minutes
or so, he was fine but, after correctly awarding a penalty to
Crewe from which they scored, David seemed to lose the plot, and
the boos directed towards him at half time were from both sides
of the stadium. Fortunately, the second half was better and it
was good to see him cracking down on dissent with yellow cards.
Rather 'old-school' in looks and actions, he nevertheless is as
fit as some of the younger ones I've seen at Gresty Road and he
did try and explain some of his decisions, which we don't always
see from the younger and more robotic referees. When David
awarded the penalty to Crewe, for me it finally buried the
ghosts of Cambridge in 2018 when his decision to penalise Ng for
a 'foul' in the penalty area was certainly one of the most
shocking I've seen at the Alex, and at the same end as well.
Overall, I think David and team can feel satisfied with their
performance this afternoon, and what a game, well done all three
teams.
[/quote
A view from the other side of the pitch.
I had my doubts about Mr Rocks decision making after 2 seconds.
From the kick off the Chesterfield cf made a run forward to go
for the 2nd ball the Crewe centre half ran some 10 yards and
deliberately blocked him off (ball 50 yards away ) when the Cfld
player regained his balance his shirt was grabbed on wrestling
free Mr Rock totally ignored the first 2 offences ang gave a
free kick to Crewe.
Mr Rocks achillies heel appeared to be not recognising 'the
shove in the back'. Crewe used this tactic on a number of
occasions (had they studied Mr Rocks weaknesses) none more so
than Crewes first 2 goals. CFC were in possession until
succumbing to the push in the back routine. These being clearly
visible on the highlights. The first may be described as soft,
but still a foul the 2nd a shocking game changing decision by Mr
Rock.
Great game and fair result though poor decisions notwithstanding
#Post#: 97885--------------------------------------------------
Re: Sat 22nd – Thu 27th NOV 2025
DIR By: nemesis
Date: November 24, 2025, 9:47 am
---------------------------------------------------------
--- Quote from: TheThingFromLewes link ---
>
> [quote author=Acme Thunderer link=topic=7413.msg97600#msg97600
date=1763398224]
> [quote author=TA_Ref link=topic=7413.msg97590#msg97590
date=1763396268]
> Andrew Miller, an EFL debut?
>
> Will Finnie with his first league game on his return to
action.
>
--- End Quote ---
Andrew Miller, I believe he's the son of former EFL favourite
(for some) Nigel Miller.
David Rock returns to Crewe Alex, and fortunately Cambridge are
not the opposition. I hope to be there to see him.
[/quote]
Nigel Miller regularly featured on RTR reports… most of them
were fairly unsatisfactory in nature.
[/quote]
No the reports were fine; it was the refereeing that was,
mainly, unsatisfactory.
#Post#: 97888--------------------------------------------------
Re: Sat 22nd – Thu 27th NOV 2025
DIR By: TheThingFromLewes
Date: November 24, 2025, 10:07 am
---------------------------------------------------------
--- Quote from: nemesis link ---
>
> [quote author=TheThingFromLewes
link=topic=7413.msg97653#msg97653 date=1763487306]
> [quote author=Acme Thunderer link=topic=7413.msg97600#msg97600
date=1763398224]
> [quote author=TA_Ref link=topic=7413.msg97590#msg97590
date=1763396268]
> Andrew Miller, an EFL debut?
>
> Will Finnie with his first league game on his return to
action.
>
--- End Quote ---
Andrew Miller, I believe he's the son of former EFL favourite
(for some) Nigel Miller.
David Rock returns to Crewe Alex, and fortunately Cambridge are
not the opposition. I hope to be there to see him.
[/quote]
Nigel Miller regularly featured on RTR reports… most of them
were fairly unsatisfactory in nature.
[/quote]
No the reports were fine; it was the refereeing that was,
mainly, unsatisfactory.
[/quote]
Indeed… 👍
#Post#: 97974--------------------------------------------------
Re: Sat 22nd – Thu 27th NOV 2025
DIR By: Tupist
Date: November 25, 2025, 1:59 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
--- Quote from: Tupist link ---
>
> [quote author=Acme Thunderer link=topic=7413.msg97797#msg97797
date=1763843490]
> Crewe Alexandra FC (First Team) v Chesterfield FC (First Team)
> Football League 2
> Referee: Rock, David
> Assistant Referee: Forder-Hay, Jack
> Assistant Referee: Smith, Daniel
> Fourth Official: Henry, Scott
>
> A bit of a mixed bag from David Rock. For the first 35 minutes
or so, he was fine but, after correctly awarding a penalty to
Crewe from which they scored, David seemed to lose the plot, and
the boos directed towards him at half time were from both sides
of the stadium. Fortunately, the second half was better and it
was good to see him cracking down on dissent with yellow cards.
Rather 'old-school' in looks and actions, he nevertheless is as
fit as some of the younger ones I've seen at Gresty Road and he
did try and explain some of his decisions, which we don't always
see from the younger and more robotic referees. When David
awarded the penalty to Crewe, for me it finally buried the
ghosts of Cambridge in 2018 when his decision to penalise Ng for
a 'foul' in the penalty area was certainly one of the most
shocking I've seen at the Alex, and at the same end as well.
Overall, I think David and team can feel satisfied with their
performance this afternoon, and what a game, well done all three
teams.
> [/quote
>
> A view from the other side of the pitch.
>
> I had my doubts about Mr Rocks decision making after 2
seconds. From the kick off the Chesterfield cf made a run
forward to go for the 2nd ball the Crewe centre half ran some 10
yards and deliberately blocked him off (ball 50 yards away )
when the Cfld player regained his balance his shirt was grabbed
on wrestling free Mr Rock totally ignored the first 2 offences
ang gave a free kick to Crewe.
>
> Mr Rocks achillies heel appeared to be not recognising 'the
shove in the back'. Crewe used this tactic on a number of
occasions (had they studied Mr Rocks weaknesses) none more so
than Crewes first 2 goals. CFC were in possession until
succumbing to the push in the back routine. These being clearly
visible on the highlights. The first may be described as soft,
but still a foul the 2nd a shocking game changing decision by Mr
Rock.
>
> Great game and fair result though poor decisions
notwithstanding
>
--- End Quote ---
--- Quote from: Tupist link ---
>
> [quote author=Acme Thunderer link=topic=7413.msg97797#msg97797
date=1763843490]
> Crewe Alexandra FC (First Team) v Chesterfield FC (First Team)
> Football League 2
> Referee: Rock, David
> Assistant Referee: Forder-Hay, Jack
> Assistant Referee: Smith, Daniel
> Fourth Official: Henry, Scott
>
> A bit of a mixed bag from David Rock. For the first 35 minutes
or so, he was fine but, after correctly awarding a penalty to
Crewe from which they scored, David seemed to lose the plot, and
the boos directed towards him at half time were from both sides
of the stadium. Fortunately, the second half was better and it
was good to see him cracking down on dissent with yellow cards.
Rather 'old-school' in looks and actions, he nevertheless is as
fit as some of the younger ones I've seen at Gresty Road and he
did try and explain some of his decisions, which we don't always
see from the younger and more robotic referees. When David
awarded the penalty to Crewe, for me it finally buried the
ghosts of Cambridge in 2018 when his decision to penalise Ng for
a 'foul' in the penalty area was certainly one of the most
shocking I've seen at the Alex, and at the same end as well.
Overall, I think David and team can feel satisfied with their
performance this afternoon, and what a game, well done all three
teams.
> [/quote
>
> A view from the other side of the pitch.
>
> I had my doubts about Mr Rocks decision making after 2
seconds. From the kick off the Chesterfield cf made a run
forward to go for the 2nd ball the Crewe centre half ran some 10
yards and deliberately blocked him off (ball 50 yards away )
when the Cfld player regained his balance his shirt was grabbed
on wrestling free Mr Rock totally ignored the first 2 offences
ang gave a free kick to Crewe.
>
> Mr Rocks achillies heel appeared to be not recognising 'the
shove in the back'. Crewe used this tactic on a number of
occasions (had they studied Mr Rocks weaknesses) none more so
than Crewes first 2 goals. CFC were in possession until
succumbing to the push in the back routine. These being clearly
visible on the highlights. The first may be described as soft,
but still a foul the 2nd a shocking game changing decision by Mr
Rock.
>
> Great game and fair result though poor decisions
notwithstanding
>
>
--- End Quote ---
Surprisingly no response on my comments above, from the Crewe
correspondents regarding Mr Rocks performance. The general
consensus this side of the hills is he succumbed to Crewes very
professional sh..housery a level above the normal
Bromley/Salford standards by sussing out and playing on the refs
weaknesses. He got 2 major game changing decisions wrong leading
to goals clearly shown on the highlights.
How many times should Connelly have been cautioned in the first
5 minutes. Perhaps Mr Rock has gone someway to appeasing his
alleged errors v Cambridge.
#Post#: 97975--------------------------------------------------
Re: Sat 22nd – Thu 27th NOV 2025
DIR By: Ryanellis
Date: November 25, 2025, 2:27 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
--- Quote from: Tupist link ---
>
> [quote author=Tupist link=topic=7413.msg97864#msg97864
date=1763974109]
> [quote author=Acme Thunderer link=topic=7413.msg97797#msg97797
date=1763843490]
> Crewe Alexandra FC (First Team) v Chesterfield FC (First Team)
> Football League 2
> Referee: Rock, David
> Assistant Referee: Forder-Hay, Jack
> Assistant Referee: Smith, Daniel
> Fourth Official: Henry, Scott
>
> A bit of a mixed bag from David Rock. For the first 35 minutes
or so, he was fine but, after correctly awarding a penalty to
Crewe from which they scored, David seemed to lose the plot, and
the boos directed towards him at half time were from both sides
of the stadium. Fortunately, the second half was better and it
was good to see him cracking down on dissent with yellow cards.
Rather 'old-school' in looks and actions, he nevertheless is as
fit as some of the younger ones I've seen at Gresty Road and he
did try and explain some of his decisions, which we don't always
see from the younger and more robotic referees. When David
awarded the penalty to Crewe, for me it finally buried the
ghosts of Cambridge in 2018 when his decision to penalise Ng for
a 'foul' in the penalty area was certainly one of the most
shocking I've seen at the Alex, and at the same end as well.
Overall, I think David and team can feel satisfied with their
performance this afternoon, and what a game, well done all three
teams.
> [/quote
>
> A view from the other side of the pitch.
>
> I had my doubts about Mr Rocks decision making after 2
seconds. From the kick off the Chesterfield cf made a run
forward to go for the 2nd ball the Crewe centre half ran some 10
yards and deliberately blocked him off (ball 50 yards away )
when the Cfld player regained his balance his shirt was grabbed
on wrestling free Mr Rock totally ignored the first 2 offences
ang gave a free kick to Crewe.
>
> Mr Rocks achillies heel appeared to be not recognising 'the
shove in the back'. Crewe used this tactic on a number of
occasions (had they studied Mr Rocks weaknesses) none more so
than Crewes first 2 goals. CFC were in possession until
succumbing to the push in the back routine. These being clearly
visible on the highlights. The first may be described as soft,
but still a foul the 2nd a shocking game changing decision by Mr
Rock.
>
> Great game and fair result though poor decisions
notwithstanding
>
--- End Quote ---
--- Quote from: Tupist link ---
>
> [quote author=Acme Thunderer link=topic=7413.msg97797#msg97797
date=1763843490]
> Crewe Alexandra FC (First Team) v Chesterfield FC (First Team)
> Football League 2
> Referee: Rock, David
> Assistant Referee: Forder-Hay, Jack
> Assistant Referee: Smith, Daniel
> Fourth Official: Henry, Scott
>
> A bit of a mixed bag from David Rock. For the first 35 minutes
or so, he was fine but, after correctly awarding a penalty to
Crewe from which they scored, David seemed to lose the plot, and
the boos directed towards him at half time were from both sides
of the stadium. Fortunately, the second half was better and it
was good to see him cracking down on dissent with yellow cards.
Rather 'old-school' in looks and actions, he nevertheless is as
fit as some of the younger ones I've seen at Gresty Road and he
did try and explain some of his decisions, which we don't always
see from the younger and more robotic referees. When David
awarded the penalty to Crewe, for me it finally buried the
ghosts of Cambridge in 2018 when his decision to penalise Ng for
a 'foul' in the penalty area was certainly one of the most
shocking I've seen at the Alex, and at the same end as well.
Overall, I think David and team can feel satisfied with their
performance this afternoon, and what a game, well done all three
teams.
> [/quote
>
> A view from the other side of the pitch.
>
> I had my doubts about Mr Rocks decision making after 2
seconds. From the kick off the Chesterfield cf made a run
forward to go for the 2nd ball the Crewe centre half ran some 10
yards and deliberately blocked him off (ball 50 yards away )
when the Cfld player regained his balance his shirt was grabbed
on wrestling free Mr Rock totally ignored the first 2 offences
ang gave a free kick to Crewe.
>
> Mr Rocks achillies heel appeared to be not recognising 'the
shove in the back'. Crewe used this tactic on a number of
occasions (had they studied Mr Rocks weaknesses) none more so
than Crewes first 2 goals. CFC were in possession until
succumbing to the push in the back routine. These being clearly
visible on the highlights. The first may be described as soft,
but still a foul the 2nd a shocking game changing decision by Mr
Rock.
>
> Great game and fair result though poor decisions
notwithstanding
>
>
--- End Quote ---
Surprisingly no response on my comments above, from the Crewe
correspondents regarding Mr Rocks performance. The general
consensus this side of the hills is he succumbed to Crewes very
professional sh..housery a level above the normal
Bromley/Salford standards by sussing out and playing on the refs
weaknesses. He got 2 major game changing decisions wrong leading
to goals clearly shown on the highlights.
How many times should Connelly have been cautioned in the first
5 minutes. Perhaps Mr Rock has gone someway to appeasing his
alleged errors v Cambridge.
[/quote]
Here’s a response then. First incident you pointed out I didn’t
see as I was getting a drink so can’t comment.
First Crewe goal looks like a foul and therefore a pen. Camera
angle doesn’t help.
Second Crewe goal - absolutely nothing wrong with it.
We’re all entitled to our own opinions, and I stand by my
thoughts of agreeing with Acme that Mr Rock had a good
performance on the whole.
#Post#: 97979--------------------------------------------------
Re: Sat 22nd – Thu 27th NOV 2025
DIR By: Tupist
Date: November 25, 2025, 3:01 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
--- Quote from: Ryanellis link ---
>
> [quote author=Tupist link=topic=7413.msg97974#msg97974
date=1764100763]
> [quote author=Tupist link=topic=7413.msg97864#msg97864
date=1763974109]
> [quote author=Acme Thunderer link=topic=7413.msg97797#msg97797
date=1763843490]
> Crewe Alexandra FC (First Team) v Chesterfield FC (First Team)
> Football League 2
> Referee: Rock, David
> Assistant Referee: Forder-Hay, Jack
> Assistant Referee: Smith, Daniel
> Fourth Official: Henry, Scott
>
> A bit of a mixed bag from David Rock. For the first 35 minutes
or so, he was fine but, after correctly awarding a penalty to
Crewe from which they scored, David seemed to lose the plot, and
the boos directed towards him at half time were from both sides
of the stadium. Fortunately, the second half was better and it
was good to see him cracking down on dissent with yellow cards.
Rather 'old-school' in looks and actions, he nevertheless is as
fit as some of the younger ones I've seen at Gresty Road and he
did try and explain some of his decisions, which we don't always
see from the younger and more robotic referees. When David
awarded the penalty to Crewe, for me it finally buried the
ghosts of Cambridge in 2018 when his decision to penalise Ng for
a 'foul' in the penalty area was certainly one of the most
shocking I've seen at the Alex, and at the same end as well.
Overall, I think David and team can feel satisfied with their
performance this afternoon, and what a game, well done all three
teams.
> [/quote
>
> A view from the other side of the pitch.
>
> I had my doubts about Mr Rocks decision making after 2
seconds. From the kick off the Chesterfield cf made a run
forward to go for the 2nd ball the Crewe centre half ran some 10
yards and deliberately blocked him off (ball 50 yards away )
when the Cfld player regained his balance his shirt was grabbed
on wrestling free Mr Rock totally ignored the first 2 offences
ang gave a free kick to Crewe.
>
> Mr Rocks achillies heel appeared to be not recognising 'the
shove in the back'. Crewe used this tactic on a number of
occasions (had they studied Mr Rocks weaknesses) none more so
than Crewes first 2 goals. CFC were in possession until
succumbing to the push in the back routine. These being clearly
visible on the highlights. The first may be described as soft,
but still a foul the 2nd a shocking game changing decision by Mr
Rock.
>
> Great game and fair result though poor decisions
notwithstanding
>
--- End Quote ---
--- Quote from: Tupist link ---
>
> [quote author=Acme Thunderer link=topic=7413.msg97797#msg97797
date=1763843490]
> Crewe Alexandra FC (First Team) v Chesterfield FC (First Team)
> Football League 2
> Referee: Rock, David
> Assistant Referee: Forder-Hay, Jack
> Assistant Referee: Smith, Daniel
> Fourth Official: Henry, Scott
>
> A bit of a mixed bag from David Rock. For the first 35 minutes
or so, he was fine but, after correctly awarding a penalty to
Crewe from which they scored, David seemed to lose the plot, and
the boos directed towards him at half time were from both sides
of the stadium. Fortunately, the second half was better and it
was good to see him cracking down on dissent with yellow cards.
Rather 'old-school' in looks and actions, he nevertheless is as
fit as some of the younger ones I've seen at Gresty Road and he
did try and explain some of his decisions, which we don't always
see from the younger and more robotic referees. When David
awarded the penalty to Crewe, for me it finally buried the
ghosts of Cambridge in 2018 when his decision to penalise Ng for
a 'foul' in the penalty area was certainly one of the most
shocking I've seen at the Alex, and at the same end as well.
Overall, I think David and team can feel satisfied with their
performance this afternoon, and what a game, well done all three
teams.
> [/quote
>
> A view from the other side of the pitch.
>
> I had my doubts about Mr Rocks decision making after 2
seconds. From the kick off the Chesterfield cf made a run
forward to go for the 2nd ball the Crewe centre half ran some 10
yards and deliberately blocked him off (ball 50 yards away )
when the Cfld player regained his balance his shirt was grabbed
on wrestling free Mr Rock totally ignored the first 2 offences
ang gave a free kick to Crewe.
>
> Mr Rocks achillies heel appeared to be not recognising 'the
shove in the back'. Crewe used this tactic on a number of
occasions (had they studied Mr Rocks weaknesses) none more so
than Crewes first 2 goals. CFC were in possession until
succumbing to the push in the back routine. These being clearly
visible on the highlights. The first may be described as soft,
but still a foul the 2nd a shocking game changing decision by Mr
Rock.
>
> Great game and fair result though poor decisions
notwithstanding
>
>
--- End Quote ---
Surprisingly no response on my comments above, from the Crewe
correspondents regarding Mr Rocks performance. The general
consensus this side of the hills is he succumbed to Crewes very
professional sh..housery a level above the normal
Bromley/Salford standards by sussing out and playing on the refs
weaknesses. He got 2 major game changing decisions wrong leading
to goals clearly shown on the highlights.
How many times should Connelly have been cautioned in the first
5 minutes. Perhaps Mr Rock has gone someway to appeasing his
alleged errors v Cambridge.
[/quote]
Here’s a response then. First incident you pointed out I didn’t
see as I was getting a drink so can’t comment.
First Crewe goal looks like a foul and therefore a pen. Camera
angle doesn’t help.
Second Crewe goal - absolutely nothing wrong with it.
We’re all entitled to our own opinions, and I stand by my
thoughts of agreeing with Acme that Mr Rock had a good
performance on the whole.
[/quote]
Well. watch the highlights on YouTube. For the first goal go
back to when the Crewe player burst into the box and got the
first, well saved shot away. He gained possession by pushing
Dunkley of the ball, clear foul, it may in modern parlance be
classed as soft, but a foul and a game changing decision.
The second goal, Berry running at the Crewe defense causing
problems, clear push. Cfld players expect the free kick and are
caught out of position, result another vital game changing
decision. These arent opinions its there for all to see
#Post#: 97981--------------------------------------------------
Re: Sat 22nd – Thu 27th NOV 2025
DIR By: Ryanellis
Date: November 25, 2025, 3:26 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
--- Quote from: Tupist link ---
>
> [quote author=Ryanellis link=topic=7413.msg97975#msg97975
date=1764102478]
> [quote author=Tupist link=topic=7413.msg97974#msg97974
date=1764100763]
> [quote author=Tupist link=topic=7413.msg97864#msg97864
date=1763974109]
> [quote author=Acme Thunderer link=topic=7413.msg97797#msg97797
date=1763843490]
> Crewe Alexandra FC (First Team) v Chesterfield FC (First Team)
> Football League 2
> Referee: Rock, David
> Assistant Referee: Forder-Hay, Jack
> Assistant Referee: Smith, Daniel
> Fourth Official: Henry, Scott
>
> A bit of a mixed bag from David Rock. For the first 35 minutes
or so, he was fine but, after correctly awarding a penalty to
Crewe from which they scored, David seemed to lose the plot, and
the boos directed towards him at half time were from both sides
of the stadium. Fortunately, the second half was better and it
was good to see him cracking down on dissent with yellow cards.
Rather 'old-school' in looks and actions, he nevertheless is as
fit as some of the younger ones I've seen at Gresty Road and he
did try and explain some of his decisions, which we don't always
see from the younger and more robotic referees. When David
awarded the penalty to Crewe, for me it finally buried the
ghosts of Cambridge in 2018 when his decision to penalise Ng for
a 'foul' in the penalty area was certainly one of the most
shocking I've seen at the Alex, and at the same end as well.
Overall, I think David and team can feel satisfied with their
performance this afternoon, and what a game, well done all three
teams.
> [/quote
>
> A view from the other side of the pitch.
>
> I had my doubts about Mr Rocks decision making after 2
seconds. From the kick off the Chesterfield cf made a run
forward to go for the 2nd ball the Crewe centre half ran some 10
yards and deliberately blocked him off (ball 50 yards away )
when the Cfld player regained his balance his shirt was grabbed
on wrestling free Mr Rock totally ignored the first 2 offences
ang gave a free kick to Crewe.
>
> Mr Rocks achillies heel appeared to be not recognising 'the
shove in the back'. Crewe used this tactic on a number of
occasions (had they studied Mr Rocks weaknesses) none more so
than Crewes first 2 goals. CFC were in possession until
succumbing to the push in the back routine. These being clearly
visible on the highlights. The first may be described as soft,
but still a foul the 2nd a shocking game changing decision by Mr
Rock.
>
> Great game and fair result though poor decisions
notwithstanding
>
--- End Quote ---
--- Quote from: Tupist link ---
>
> [quote author=Acme Thunderer link=topic=7413.msg97797#msg97797
date=1763843490]
> Crewe Alexandra FC (First Team) v Chesterfield FC (First Team)
> Football League 2
> Referee: Rock, David
> Assistant Referee: Forder-Hay, Jack
> Assistant Referee: Smith, Daniel
> Fourth Official: Henry, Scott
>
> A bit of a mixed bag from David Rock. For the first 35 minutes
or so, he was fine but, after correctly awarding a penalty to
Crewe from which they scored, David seemed to lose the plot, and
the boos directed towards him at half time were from both sides
of the stadium. Fortunately, the second half was better and it
was good to see him cracking down on dissent with yellow cards.
Rather 'old-school' in looks and actions, he nevertheless is as
fit as some of the younger ones I've seen at Gresty Road and he
did try and explain some of his decisions, which we don't always
see from the younger and more robotic referees. When David
awarded the penalty to Crewe, for me it finally buried the
ghosts of Cambridge in 2018 when his decision to penalise Ng for
a 'foul' in the penalty area was certainly one of the most
shocking I've seen at the Alex, and at the same end as well.
Overall, I think David and team can feel satisfied with their
performance this afternoon, and what a game, well done all three
teams.
> [/quote
>
> A view from the other side of the pitch.
>
> I had my doubts about Mr Rocks decision making after 2
seconds. From the kick off the Chesterfield cf made a run
forward to go for the 2nd ball the Crewe centre half ran some 10
yards and deliberately blocked him off (ball 50 yards away )
when the Cfld player regained his balance his shirt was grabbed
on wrestling free Mr Rock totally ignored the first 2 offences
ang gave a free kick to Crewe.
>
> Mr Rocks achillies heel appeared to be not recognising 'the
shove in the back'. Crewe used this tactic on a number of
occasions (had they studied Mr Rocks weaknesses) none more so
than Crewes first 2 goals. CFC were in possession until
succumbing to the push in the back routine. These being clearly
visible on the highlights. The first may be described as soft,
but still a foul the 2nd a shocking game changing decision by Mr
Rock.
>
> Great game and fair result though poor decisions
notwithstanding
>
>
--- End Quote ---
Surprisingly no response on my comments above, from the Crewe
correspondents regarding Mr Rocks performance. The general
consensus this side of the hills is he succumbed to Crewes very
professional sh..housery a level above the normal
Bromley/Salford standards by sussing out and playing on the refs
weaknesses. He got 2 major game changing decisions wrong leading
to goals clearly shown on the highlights.
How many times should Connelly have been cautioned in the first
5 minutes. Perhaps Mr Rock has gone someway to appeasing his
alleged errors v Cambridge.
[/quote]
Here’s a response then. First incident you pointed out I didn’t
see as I was getting a drink so can’t comment.
First Crewe goal looks like a foul and therefore a pen. Camera
angle doesn’t help.
Second Crewe goal - absolutely nothing wrong with it.
We’re all entitled to our own opinions, and I stand by my
thoughts of agreeing with Acme that Mr Rock had a good
performance on the whole.
[/quote]
Well. watch the highlights on YouTube. For the first goal go
back to when the Crewe player burst into the box and got the
first, well saved shot away. He gained possession by pushing
Dunkley of the ball, clear foul, it may in modern parlance be
classed as soft, but a foul and a game changing decision.
The second goal, Berry running at the Crewe defense causing
problems, clear push. Cfld players expect the free kick and are
caught out of position, result another vital game changing
decision. These arent opinions its there for all to see
[/quote]
I didn’t know there were extended highlights on this game and
the normal 2 min ones don’t show the potential incidents. First
one I think the defender has to be stronger but then the
goalkeeper saves the shot and it’s not Mr Rock’s fault that
Chesterfield didn’t clear it.
Second one - I’m 50/50 on as there is a push in the arm but only
that player (besides fans) actually ask for a foul. There’s a
half hearted hands up in the air by Chesterfield 19 but I’d
argue you have to get stronger again.
I will leave it at this. I hope Chesterfield well for the
season, as I think they will be up there.
#Post#: 97983--------------------------------------------------
Re: Sat 22nd – Thu 27th NOV 2025
DIR By: TheThingFromLewes
Date: November 25, 2025, 3:47 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
--- Quote from: Ryanellis link ---
>
> [quote author=Tupist link=topic=7413.msg97979#msg97979
date=1764104491]
> [quote author=Ryanellis link=topic=7413.msg97975#msg97975
date=1764102478]
> [quote author=Tupist link=topic=7413.msg97974#msg97974
date=1764100763]
> [quote author=Tupist link=topic=7413.msg97864#msg97864
date=1763974109]
> [quote author=Acme Thunderer link=topic=7413.msg97797#msg97797
date=1763843490]
> Crewe Alexandra FC (First Team) v Chesterfield FC (First Team)
> Football League 2
> Referee: Rock, David
> Assistant Referee: Forder-Hay, Jack
> Assistant Referee: Smith, Daniel
> Fourth Official: Henry, Scott
>
> A bit of a mixed bag from David Rock. For the first 35 minutes
or so, he was fine but, after correctly awarding a penalty to
Crewe from which they scored, David seemed to lose the plot, and
the boos directed towards him at half time were from both sides
of the stadium. Fortunately, the second half was better and it
was good to see him cracking down on dissent with yellow cards.
Rather 'old-school' in looks and actions, he nevertheless is as
fit as some of the younger ones I've seen at Gresty Road and he
did try and explain some of his decisions, which we don't always
see from the younger and more robotic referees. When David
awarded the penalty to Crewe, for me it finally buried the
ghosts of Cambridge in 2018 when his decision to penalise Ng for
a 'foul' in the penalty area was certainly one of the most
shocking I've seen at the Alex, and at the same end as well.
Overall, I think David and team can feel satisfied with their
performance this afternoon, and what a game, well done all three
teams.
> [/quote
>
> A view from the other side of the pitch.
>
> I had my doubts about Mr Rocks decision making after 2
seconds. From the kick off the Chesterfield cf made a run
forward to go for the 2nd ball the Crewe centre half ran some 10
yards and deliberately blocked him off (ball 50 yards away )
when the Cfld player regained his balance his shirt was grabbed
on wrestling free Mr Rock totally ignored the first 2 offences
ang gave a free kick to Crewe.
>
> Mr Rocks achillies heel appeared to be not recognising 'the
shove in the back'. Crewe used this tactic on a number of
occasions (had they studied Mr Rocks weaknesses) none more so
than Crewes first 2 goals. CFC were in possession until
succumbing to the push in the back routine. These being clearly
visible on the highlights. The first may be described as soft,
but still a foul the 2nd a shocking game changing decision by Mr
Rock.
>
> Great game and fair result though poor decisions
notwithstanding
>
--- End Quote ---
--- Quote from: Tupist link ---
>
> [quote author=Acme Thunderer link=topic=7413.msg97797#msg97797
date=1763843490]
> Crewe Alexandra FC (First Team) v Chesterfield FC (First Team)
> Football League 2
> Referee: Rock, David
> Assistant Referee: Forder-Hay, Jack
> Assistant Referee: Smith, Daniel
> Fourth Official: Henry, Scott
>
> A bit of a mixed bag from David Rock. For the first 35 minutes
or so, he was fine but, after correctly awarding a penalty to
Crewe from which they scored, David seemed to lose the plot, and
the boos directed towards him at half time were from both sides
of the stadium. Fortunately, the second half was better and it
was good to see him cracking down on dissent with yellow cards.
Rather 'old-school' in looks and actions, he nevertheless is as
fit as some of the younger ones I've seen at Gresty Road and he
did try and explain some of his decisions, which we don't always
see from the younger and more robotic referees. When David
awarded the penalty to Crewe, for me it finally buried the
ghosts of Cambridge in 2018 when his decision to penalise Ng for
a 'foul' in the penalty area was certainly one of the most
shocking I've seen at the Alex, and at the same end as well.
Overall, I think David and team can feel satisfied with their
performance this afternoon, and what a game, well done all three
teams.
> [/quote
>
> A view from the other side of the pitch.
>
> I had my doubts about Mr Rocks decision making after 2
seconds. From the kick off the Chesterfield cf made a run
forward to go for the 2nd ball the Crewe centre half ran some 10
yards and deliberately blocked him off (ball 50 yards away )
when the Cfld player regained his balance his shirt was grabbed
on wrestling free Mr Rock totally ignored the first 2 offences
ang gave a free kick to Crewe.
>
> Mr Rocks achillies heel appeared to be not recognising 'the
shove in the back'. Crewe used this tactic on a number of
occasions (had they studied Mr Rocks weaknesses) none more so
than Crewes first 2 goals. CFC were in possession until
succumbing to the push in the back routine. These being clearly
visible on the highlights. The first may be described as soft,
but still a foul the 2nd a shocking game changing decision by Mr
Rock.
>
> Great game and fair result though poor decisions
notwithstanding
>
>
--- End Quote ---
Surprisingly no response on my comments above, from the Crewe
correspondents regarding Mr Rocks performance. The general
consensus this side of the hills is he succumbed to Crewes very
professional sh..housery a level above the normal
Bromley/Salford standards by sussing out and playing on the refs
weaknesses. He got 2 major game changing decisions wrong leading
to goals clearly shown on the highlights.
How many times should Connelly have been cautioned in the first
5 minutes. Perhaps Mr Rock has gone someway to appeasing his
alleged errors v Cambridge.
[/quote]
Here’s a response then. First incident you pointed out I didn’t
see as I was getting a drink so can’t comment.
First Crewe goal looks like a foul and therefore a pen. Camera
angle doesn’t help.
Second Crewe goal - absolutely nothing wrong with it.
We’re all entitled to our own opinions, and I stand by my
thoughts of agreeing with Acme that Mr Rock had a good
performance on the whole.
[/quote]
Well. watch the highlights on YouTube. For the first goal go
back to when the Crewe player burst into the box and got the
first, well saved shot away. He gained possession by pushing
Dunkley of the ball, clear foul, it may in modern parlance be
classed as soft, but a foul and a game changing decision.
The second goal, Berry running at the Crewe defense causing
problems, clear push. Cfld players expect the free kick and are
caught out of position, result another vital game changing
decision. These arent opinions its there for all to see
[/quote]
I didn’t know there were extended highlights on this game and
the normal 2 min ones don’t show the potential incidents. First
one I think the defender has to be stronger but then the
goalkeeper saves the shot and it’s not Mr Rock’s fault that
Chesterfield didn’t clear it.
Second one - I’m 50/50 on as there is a push in the arm but only
that player (besides fans) actually ask for a foul. There’s a
half hearted hands up in the air by Chesterfield 19 but I’d
argue you have to get stronger again.
I will leave it at this. I hope Chesterfield well for the
season, as I think they will be up there.
That’s a big quote!
[/quote]
*****************************************************
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