This discussion sounds like antics similar to those in coaches pitch on a little league field, where they have almost as many 'coaches' as players. This 'alleged' physical incident may have been prevented had the referee, early on, warned the coach for the abusive/foul language. That type language is not permitted if it is against your opponent or your own players. I was not there and have no evidence to offer in this matter. Yet, as a ref, there are a number of coaches who come to games with chips on their respective shoulders and attempt to intimidate referees as much as than can get away with. Maybe a stern 1st warning, followed by a toss for second offense would have avoided any subsequent physical incident. The game is to be played by guys/gals and controlled by refs, not by any coaches. All concerned should view, play and coach the games with a competitive spirit, tempered with rational conduct. We should have a greater appreciation for the 'beautiful' game that involves much skill and technique and team work. Soccer is a great and fun sport if coached and played in the proper spirit.
'To say that these men paid their shillings to watch twenty-two hirelings kick a ball is merely to say that a violin is wood and catgut, that Hamlet is so much paper and ink.' ~J.B. Priestley, The Good Companions, 1928
