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Could it be something as simple as geography? Certainly in my area, at grass roots level, referees are often appointed to fairly local matches. If there are no big matches or teams in your area you might be missing out. If you think this might be a factor you could contact your appointments...

On the MOD highlights the commentator, at least twice, mentioned the outcome of a 'VAR appeal' whatever that is?

I've never been aware of any restriction on this but I can appreciate the potential problems it might cause.

Credit to the referee and assistant - both looked fully aware of what was going on which is more that can be said for the team in white or the commentators.

Sometimes you just get games like that, they're tough but as described you seem to have handled it well. If you're sending off both goalkeepers and awarding 3 penalties you're never going to be popular even if the decisions are 100% correct. Hope it hasn't put you off.

It's going back a few years now but there was a well publicised case in Scotland of a lower league goalkeeper urinating beside the pitch at some point during the game. I recall he was red carded and advice from local RA, presumably coming from SFA, was that this was the correct course of action.

Looks like a right hook in the video clip too - red for me.

Disappointing season for me only managing 16 games until health problems curtailing my refereeing in February. I'm on the mend and hope to be back in action for the start of next season.

As you describe it I don't think you've done too badly.

In Scotland it is my understanding that this is mandatory.

At grassroots level in my area I've seen no training or guidance at all on how to deal with racism incidents.

If you're not used to neutral ARs the hardest part can be remembering that they're there and to look to them for things you would not look for from club ARs. Good luck!

I totally agree with JamesL - frequency and intensity of games at this time of year can be demanding. We all have other interests and commitments so the combination of midweek and weekend games is demanding in terms of time and physical and mental effort. Don't be surprised if you're raring to...

As you go on to explain, these aren't actually "identical" fouls. Circumstances, field position, previous infringements etc all come into play.

I've only ever had one personal hearing and thankfully my experience was reasonably positive. However, they can be a daunting experience for a referee. Normally you are permitted to bring someone with you and your RA should support you on this if requested.

A local 4G facility was expecting referees to police footwear not only of players and coaches but also of any spectators in attendance. Our RA got involved and made it clear this was no a refereeing matter.

I have to admit a certain sense of satisfaction when ignoring 'can't shout leave it' claims. Almost always it's clear who shouted, to whom they shouted and what they meant. In 20 years I've only had one incident where it was done to distract an opponent.

I'd support any referee who opted for abandonment in these circumstances.

Yes, probably correct - my likelihood of a cup final has diminished post COVID.

Shirt and tie for any final!