Blackwell plays down fracas

Leeds boss Kevin Blackwell has claimed Saturday’s brawl at Elland Road which has today led to a Football Association charge “was really nothing”.

United and Coca-Cola Championship rivals Gillingham have both been hit with an FA rap of failing to control their players after a melee during the second half of the 1-1 draw.

The incident was sparked when left-back Michael Gray, on loan to Leeds from Blackburn for the remainder of the season, angrily reacted to a challenge from Gills striker Darius Henderson.

As the two players clashed, angry scenes swiftly followed involving players and coaches from both sides before referee Mark Cowburn eventually showed red cards to Henderson and Gray for violent conduct.

Gillingham have launched an appeal against Henderson’s dismissal to the FA, who have since studied video footage of the fracas and imposed the charge, with both clubs given the mandatory 14 days to respond.

Blackwell has defended what unfolded as he said: “Things like that do happen in football, but I don’t think there was an aggressive punch thrown.

“It was players trying to get between players and it was really nothing. The players who got sent off were the two culprits and it got dealt with there and then.”

Gray has subsequently issued a profuse apology to Blackwell, his team-mates and the fans, with his punishment a three-match ban starting with tomorrow’s league clash with Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.

Blackwell, though, can offer no excuses for Gray’s behaviour, adding: “As soon as you turn around and retaliate then the rules are you have to go and I can’t defend him in any way.

“He responded to being thrown to the ground, but he’s an experienced player and he knows better than that and that’s why he’s apologised to the lads.”

“I think our record this year has actually been quite good for a league we knew was going to be competitive,” insisted Blackwell.

“There was one incident on Saturday, but I would say it was not a violent game at all and we have not been involved in anything like it this season.

“The fact is, I have got players here on no bookings, but people aren’t talking about them.”