LMA stand by Jewell in ref row

THE League Managers Association have launched a rigorous defence of Wigan boss Paul Jewell following his criticism of referee Phil Dowd.

The Football Association are examining Jewell’s comments in the wake of Monday night’s 1-1 Barclays Premiership draw against Blackburn at Ewood Park.

A clearly angry Jewell described Dowd as “incompetent” and that his decisions were “nonsensical”, in particular in allowing Rovers’ late equaliser to stand.

Jewell fully anticipates being charged by the FA, yet the LMA feel Jewell was within his right to criticise Dowd.

An LMA statement yesterday said: “The LMA fully supports the right of its members to express honestly-held opinions about refereeing decisions.

“Paul was asked questions about decisions which affected the course of the game, and he gave his honest views.