By Andrew Warshaw
September 25 – Referee Mark Halsey has complained to Greater Manchester Police about receiving abusive tweets following Liverpool’s high profile 2-1 defeat by Manchester United on Sunday (September 23).
Halsey (pictured top, right) dismissed Liverpool midfielder Jonjo Shelvey (pictured top, left) for a dangerous tackle and awarded United a match-winning penalty and afterwards was the object of tweets referring to his – and his wife’s – fight against cancer.
“I can confirm that my family have made a complaint to the police,” Halsey said.
The abuse was condemned as “beneath contempt” by the match officials’ union, Prospect whose national secretary Alan Leighton, said: “Prospect wholeheartedly condemns the unacceptable abuse aimed at Mark Halsey on Twitter.
“The comments made by a very small minority will be seen as beneath contempt by all decent people.
“The main concern now is for Mark and his family, who are receiving the support of his employer, PGMOL [Professional Game Match Officials Limited].
“Prospect will also provide any assistance as required.”
Halsey, who has had throat cancer, was also supported by former referee Dermot Gallagher.
“Some things cross the boundaries and this has,” said Gallagher.
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