Toon Match Is Not In Doubt!

Last updated : 27 November 2010 By Footy Mad - Editor

The club confirmed: "There is no problem, the pitch is fine, and we don't see any problems.

But north of the border the fixture list is set to be hit "dramatically" ... for other reasons than snow.

Motherwell manager Craig Brown has launched a scathing attack on the country's striking referees, accusing them of "cowardice" and embarrassing Scottish football.

Brown is annoyed that referees took the decision to withdraw their labour this weekend without first engaging in dialogue with any of the affected parties.

And the former national team coach has told match officials that the persecution they and their families may face is nothing compared to the treatment doled out to Scotland managers.

Motherwell's Clydesdale Bank Premier League clash against Hearts on Sunday has survived the strike but 12 senior matches will not go ahead as a result of the shock industrial action.

"We are embarrassing Scottish football," Brown said. "I bet you down in England they are having a laugh, every dressing room and every media man.

"I think the referees' association has embarrassed football in Scotland by taking this action because surely there are another five agencies they should have dealt with before going on strike.

"They should speak to the managers' union, Alex Smith, you will not get a more decent sensible guy.

"Speak to the players' union if they have a problem with players. Speak to the Scottish Football League, the SPL and the SFA.

"Having had the five agencies round the table and still feeling aggrieved, then go on strike.

"If they have issues with the press, they should speak to the president of the press association.

"Why do this without sitting round the table in a mature, sensible manner?

"What I would say to the referees is grow up please and sit round the table like men and talk to the various people with whom they feel they have a grievance."