young official, or indeed any official for that matter, do? Well here's my advice. I shall demonstrate using some situations I have encountered this season alone.

Personally, I think it is important to create an air of authority before and as you enter the field of play. Be smart, with clean kit (shirt inside shorts) and clean boots. The key to your success on the park is authority- if you inspire confidence through your appearance then you are halfway there.

Secondly, be confident in your decisions. If its a foul, let them know its a foul! Don't blow your whistle apologetically, let your whistle talk!! By this, I mean if it is a small offence, for example offside or a foul throw-in, a short blast will suffice. However, if the offence is of a serious nature, say a late challenge or (heaven forbid) a challenge from behind, blast the whistle hard. Show your disapproval of the actions of the player. DO NOT LET THE REACTIONS OF A PLAYER OR ANYTHING THAT A PLAYER MAY SAY EFFECT YOUR DECISION!! STICK BY IT!!

Although this may seem common sense, it can be amazing the difference in response from those around you if you show confidence in your decisions. Nevertheless, one of the main problems is things that are shouted from the
side at you, or about the decisions you are making. The main thing that you must bear in mind is whether the things that are being said are damaging your credibility, and for that matter your authority.  IF THEY ARE, THEN YOU MUST ACT!

If a spectator (or indeed manager) states something that you feel you cannot simply ignore, you must act or it will only get worse. If they get away with it once they will do it time and time again. However, I think you must tailor your actions according to the sincerity of the offence. If, for example, the spectator is not abusive, say they call your decision "a joke, an absolute joke!", then a word during the next stoppage in play may well suffice. Ensure that you let the offender know the you consider that conduct wholly unacceptable and that should it continue you will ask him to leave the surrounding area of the pitch.

If however, the offender is abusive, for example the call you "a useless cheating c**t", then you have no option but to ask them to leave. Dismiss them or you will not keep your authority or credibility in tact. NEVER react by being abusing back. Calmly inquire as to the offenders name (if they are the manager) and ask them to leave, stating clearly that you will be reporting the matter to the County. Should the refuse, my advice is to threaten the abandonment of the fixture- usually you will find this is sufficient to change their mind. If it is not, then carry it out, abandon the fixture. I have once, and believe me the person responsible will never do any thing like it again, not only due to the action taken by County (or the league for that matter) but due to the reaction of those around him.

In short, you must stick to your goals. You are the boss, don't let them damage your performance or credibility. Once you've done the deed and taken the action you feel necessary, don't feel that you are on your own. Your membership of the RA can help you endlessly. Inside the from cover of Touchlines are a list of Committee members, most of whom would, more than likely, if not definitely, do all they can to help you in the way of advice.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE... WE CAN HELP YOU!!

Anthony Moore