Ken Bates casts shadow over Carlisle's cup triumph

Feb 11 2010 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

CARLISLE United have been accused of “not planning properly” for the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy semi-final full house at Brunton Park by Leeds United chairman Ken Bates.

The Wembley-bound Cumbrians are furious that their celebrations have been overshadowed by a row over the way they policed the game, an argument sparked by allegations that three Leeds players were punched in the aftermath of Carlisle’s dramatic penalty shoot-out victory.

And after a day of claims and counter claims they will hardly welcome the incorrigible Bates’ view that their organisation ahead of the game was “basic”. Having received the referee’s report the Football Association are looking into the alleged incidents after the game and will ask both clubs to put across their version of events before deciding whether to take action. Leeds say they will lodge a formal complaint.

“The trouble is, of course, with these little clubs – and I use the word advisedly – is that their organisation is very basic,” Bates said yesterday.

“There were nearly 10,000 people there and they clearly didn’t plan for it properly. That is a worry and I am sure the FA or the Football League will be looking into that matter because you can’t skimp on security to save a few bob, particularly since it is being paid for out of the central pot anyway.

“What worries me more is the story about these laser beams being shone in the players’ eyes. That is very serious.” The misdeeds of a few louts in a near 10,000 crowd should not detract from the terrific support of a near full-house at Brunton Park, however, and for Carlisle United teenager Adam Clayton the fans helped contribute to the most memorable night of his fledgling career.