Trapped ref blows the whistle

Wheatsheaf were left seething after Ager allowed a lengthy stoppage period, allowing their Demarco Cup opponents Oddfellows to score an extra-time equaliser and eventually win the game on a penalty shoot-out.

But Ager claims the scene turned nasty and he called the police on his mobile phone.

He said: "I was verbally abused and they threatened me with violence. I thought the situation might get out of hand which is why I phoned the police."

Officers arrived shortly after Ager had been released, but will investigate the matter further if he decides to press charges. It could lead to the offenders facing an unlawful imprisonment charge.

Wheatsheaf secretary Mark Carey was taking the nets down when it happened and was only aware of the situation when Ager came to collect his match fee and said he was going to report them to the FA.

Carey said he club was unsure if the offenders were players or supporters, but added they would not tolerate individuals behaving inappropriately.

Wheatsheaf are likely to be fined and could be expelled from the Hastings and East Sussex Sunday League.