So, everything is back to normal again after referees and the federation reached an agreement not to be rude to each other any more (why does the phrase SNAFU spring to mind here?).

That was not much consolation for Betis though, who are sure that there is a conspiracy to see them go down after some dubious decisions by Velasco Carballo saw them lose in the last minute to relegation rivals Celta. Velasco rather harshly sent off Capi before the break, and then also produced a red card for coach Luis Fernández, but more importantly he awarded a non-existent penalty to the locals in injury time which deprived the Andalusians of a vital draw.

Unfortunately the visitors and their travelling fans coincided with the referee at Vigo airport on their way back after the match, and after some ugly incidents he had to be escorted to his plane by local police! Velasco is currently topping our chart, and he would now appear to be firm favourite for the White Stick award, helped to a large part by no less than 19 yellow cards and two reds during (and immediately after) the match! (29.05.07)