Reading Football Club News

• Nickname:Royals
• Founded:1871
• Manager:Brian McDermott

• Ground:Madejski Stadium
• Capacity:24,200

Downes admits FA charge

07 Feb 2007 - 15:33:43

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Reading's assistant boss Wally Downes has admitted an FA charge of improper conduct relating to his behaviour during last month's ill-tempered Premiership clash with Sheffield United.

However, the Royals have denied a charge of failing to control their players and or/officials in the same encounter.

Trouble flared when Blades winger Keith Gillespie was dismissed just 20 seconds after arriving on the pitch as a substitute for appearing to elbow Steve Hunt.

Following the incident, United boss Neil Warnock remonstrated with referee Mark Halsey, which led to Downes pushing and confronting the Blades boss in the technical area.

A statement on Reading's official website read: "Reading FC have denied a charge of failing to control their players and/or officials.

"The charge relates to a mass confrontation on the touchline in the second half of the match against Sheffield United on 20th January. Sheffield United have admitted the same charge.

"Both clubs have requested personal hearings which will be scheduled in due course.

"Reading coach Wally Downes has admitted a charge of improper conduct in relation to the same incident and requested a personal hearing."