HEREFORD Lads Club have been charged with failing to control their players after one of their reserve players allegedly assaulted a referee.

As reported by the Hereford Times, it is alleged Will Webb punched Les Coultas during the HFA County League Premier Division match against Orleton Colts.

Webb has subsequently been charged with assault by the Herefordshire Football Association and suspended from playing football.

The HFA have confirmed another player has also been hit with the same charge and has been suspended.

Both cases will be heard within the 28 day stipulation, as per FA regulations, while the players sent off previous to the abandonment will serve automatic suspensions.

HFA chief executive Jim Lambert says the body are fully supportive of referees and they take immediate action when they receive reports of any assault of misconduct.

"In the instance of an alleged assault the player is suspended immediately from all football," said Lambert.

"The due process set up by The Football Association has to be followed, in which a disciplinary commission must hear the case within 28 days.

"In a case where the charge is found proven the penalty is a sine die suspension from all football with no possible review within a minimum of five years.

"It is always very disturbing and thankfully a very rare occurrence when an assault takes place on a referee but the positive element is that the county FA always act immediately to remove that person from the game.

"The vast majority of players appreciate the value that a referee contributes to the game and that referees are in the game because of their love of the game.

"I can only reiterate that anyone who assaults a referee will be removed from the game."

Since the incident, Hereford Lads Club have reappointed Leon Cooke as their reserve team manager.

Cooke says the players involved will not play for him while he is in charge.

"I want to bring the enjoyment back into the football side and a team that can be competitive," said Cooke, who has already signed a number of players.

"It's a fresh challenge with a new side and some young players.

"I love Lads Club and I didn't want them to pull out of the league.

"I've had approaches from people to sponsor a brand new kit and the buzz is back.

"I just want players who are reliable and are happy to play for Lads Club."