Simonsen suspended

Press, 3 June 1989, Page 92

Simonsen suspended

PA Nelson The former Nelson United player-coach, Peter Simonsen, was yesterday suspended for two weeks for his criticism of the Wellington soccer referee, Trevor Allsebrook. The Nelson Football Association said it suspended Simonsen, who quit Nelson United earlier this week, for his comments about Mr Allsebrook’s refereeing in the club’s central league game against Wainuiomata on May 20. The N.F.A. chairman.

Gary Hinks, said the association’s judicial committee had found Simonsen guilty of bringing the game into disrepute. “The committee, after meeting Simonsen and his nominated representative, and considering all relevant information, has suspended Simonsen for two playing days, and reprimanded him for bringing the game into disrepute,” he said in a statement. “The N.F.A. considers that this matter is now closed and no further comment will be made.” Simonsen said he ac-

cepted the committee’s decision. “I’m thankful they took everything into account and gave me a fair hearing. But I still hope that the original complaint about the referee will be followed through the correct channels.” Simonsen said he had made no decision on his playing future because he had been waiting for the judicial committee’s verdict. He had said earlier this week that he was considering offers from Wellington national league clubs.