Final friendly marred by mass brawl

Last updated : 07 August 2002 By Luke Thornhill
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A tackle from Sean Singh on Dean Calcutt just after the half hour mark, prompted the player to respond with a punch.

Every player on the pitch, bar Steve Torpey, was involved in the following melee which lead to Paul Wilson bringing his side off the pitch.

Included in the side was assistant manager Russ Wilcox, as well as both the Ridley brothers.

Scunthorpe United have not commented on the incident, either through their official website, the Ironworld subscription service or local media - and Park Avenue's official website describes it marring the match.

Paul Wilson refused to comment to journalists after the match, but BPA manager Trevor Storton branded the actions of Wilson a disgrace.

"The way their lads joined in the fighting was a disgrace," Storton told the Bradford Telegraph And Argus.

"And Wilson's decision to take his players off was diabolical. I don't know who he thinks he is."

In such instances we should remember, that no matter how bad or late a challenge is it is always the place of the referee to decide and punches should not be accepted. Neither, is it acceptable to respond in like manner.

Stuart Preston scored the winning goal before the unfortunate incident, although the home side claimed the ball was illegally kicked out fo the goalkeepers hands.

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