Robinson furious with referee after Hungerford lose controversial Swindon clash

Hungerford Town manager Danny Robinson was left “simmering” with anger after their game against Swindon Supermarine on Monday afternoon.

The Crusaders lost 2-0 to their local rivals in a game defined by a controversial refereeing performance which saw captain Rhys Tyler dismissed on the brink of half time and six yellows shown to Hungerford, including one for Robinson.

“In seventeen years of being a football manager, I have never, ever, ever had a referee as bad as that, never”, Robinson reflected.

“I struggle with arrogance”, he continued.

“It was always going to be a bit feisty, as a local derby, so you do need someone strong.

“But when you've got a referee that's back-chatting the crowd, smiling and winking at me when he's making decisions… I've never come across that in all my life.

“It was never a sending off, not in a million years.

“I never say this about referees, but I just felt he made it about him.”

Robinson reaffirmed his respect for officials, despite Monday’s events.

“Referees have the hardest job in football. I wouldn't do their job for love nor money!

“I respect 99.9% of them, but I’ve never seen that before.

Robinson was also proud of his players, who kept themselves in the game despite being defeated by two late goals.

“Not a single one of my players’ bookings were for dissent”, he said.

On Saturday, Hungerford’s trip to AFC Totton was filled with far less controversy, although many present believed the hosts’ opening goal to have been offside.

Despite a spirited performance, Hungerford fell to a 3-1 defeat, with Jacob Bancroft scoring a consolation late on.

Robinson was pleased with a battling performance against a Totton side favourites for the title and boasting Charlie Austin up front.

“We were on top until they scored, I felt we had good chances”, he said.

“The scoreline did flatter them and obviously we're missing the main man up top, who scores the goals.”

“Last year we had seven points from seven games, this year it's six points from five. We're just looking forward to the FA Cup now.”