Game 40

... and when I answered it, I heard a colleague from the RA asking for help in covering a game for his son's U14 side this afternoon.

So I made my way home, changed into a clean kit and set off. I have never refereed at this local venue before and was concerned about the size of the field and the steep hill from end to end. Nevertheless I got the game underway after a jewellery/footwear check.

Just as with the morning game, this one was over as a contest after less than half an hour. This time however it was the home team who reaped the rewards. An early goal from open play, followed by a goal from a kick from the penalty mark, were quickly followed by two others from open play. I had nothing else to do apart from run up and down the hill, with up hill being made all the more difficult by the strong wind.

My legs were like lead and I have no hesitation in admitting that I was exhausted with 10 minutes to go. I had to speak to one petulant player on two occasions in the second half, then caution another for not respecting the required distance of a restart. A consolation goal for the away team saw the game completed at 4-1. Calories 939, max hr 86%, average 69%. Time for a nice, long, hot bath ...