Raynor Not Happy With Kuhl's Actions

Last updated : 31 October 2007 By Stray Shots Team

Tom Gurney has reported that Shots assistant manager Martin Kuhl was sent from the dug-out by the referee after punching Raynor in the face during Reds' fourth qualifying round 1-0 replay defeat at the Rec on last night.

The pair clashed again in the tunnel at half time, with Kuhl reportedly trying to head-butt his opposite number.

Crawley are set to report Kuhl to the Football Association for the double assault and Raynor says what he did was unexcusable.

He said: "I have been in football for 25 years and I have never experienced anything like it. There has been lots of incidents of pushing and shoving in the tunnel but to do what he did is unheard of.

"To be struck in the technical area is unforgivable and it has no place in football."

The incident occurred after Crawley defender James Krause was injured in a tackle with Shots winger Rob Gier at the end of the first half.

Kuhl and Raynor had been involved in a war of words throughout the game and squared up to each other by the Shots dug-out.

Raynor said: "It came totally out of the blue and I'm sure it is very regrettable from Aldershot's point of view, especially after Saturday's game, which was good humoured.

"Martin had his opinions on the tackle and words were exchanged but nothing untoward. The disappointing thing is that after it happened we carried on and you thought the incident was over with and we could concentrate on the game. So to be confronted again in the tunnel where he tried to head-butt me is inexcusable.

"I was asked by the referee after the game to give my account of what happened and I will now let the FA get on and deal with it."

Raynor and Reds manager Steve Evans have a track record of poor behaviour on the touchline.

Evans has been sent to the stands three times already this season and Raynor was dismissed with him during a game against Stafford Rangers two weeks ago.

Both escaped punishment by the football authorities.

Raynor said: "It is well documented that Steve and I get very passionate, appeal for everything and there is a bit of verbal stuff but we have never done anything like that. We all get heated on the touchline but you can't raise your fist.

"The disappointing thing is that it was a cracking cup tie and we played very well but no one will remember that. It was soured by the incident and it spoilt my enjoyment of the game."

Reporter: Tom Gurney
Source: http://www.theargus.co.uk/