Referees met up for one of their mid-season physicals this week, but in Spain that is more than just a formal "cough and drop 'em". If the officials don't reach certain standards in sprints, long distance running and other tests (including running backwards!) they can be left out until they achieve the required levels.

Such was the case of our current chart-topper Daudén Ibáñez, who pulled up with an injury in the 2,000 metres and will therefore not be allowed to take charge of a match until the next tests in a month's time. Alvarez Izquierdo did get through though despite spending the last month in "the fridge" after his bad performance in the Real Madrid v Athletic Bilbao game, and he will be let loose once again on the unsuspecting public.

One thing they would all have been happy about though was the lack of controversy both in the midweek cup ties and the weekend league games. A quiet week for once, and long may it be so! (18.11.08)