Source: FOOTYMAD
Bates To Ref Boxing Day Clash
Tony Bates is best remembered by Whites fans for controversially dismissing Alan Thompson for violent conduct after just 34 minutes of a crucial Championship clash at Southampton in April 2007. Then boss Dennis Wise was very angry and the red card was later rescinded. The Staffordshire official, who also reffed the 1st leg League One play-off semi-final defeat to Carlisle in May 2008, took charge of United's first away game this term at Forest, booking Neil Kilkenny and Sanchez Watt. His record this season is 43 yellow and three red cards in 17 fixtures.
