GREAT Harwood boss Denis Underwood was furious with the referee after he sent off Simon Garner and gave NWCL Division One high fliers St Helens a disputed penalty.

Striker Garner was dismissed in the first half for kicking out at a St Helens player and although Underwood felt this was justified, he was upset that the home player - who he said had kicked Garner first - was only shown a yellow card.

"He acknowledged that their player had done something but only gave him a yellow card," said the Harwood boss.

"Simon knew he was in the wrong, it was stupid, but I was annoyed that their lad only got a yellow and Simon a red."

At this stage St Helens were already one goal up. Harwood were attacking, lost the ball and the home side broke on 25 minutes to slot home the opener.

"We had played well up to this point so I couldn't criticise the goal."

Garner then saw red before the disputed spot kick on the stroke of half-time.

"Jamie Smith was judged to have fouled Paul Heavy but he was just standing his ground trying to stop him turning," said the Harwood chief.

"I was speaking to Accrington Stanley boss John Coleman after the game and he said he wished he'd had penalties given like that as he would have had at least one a game!

"And I was furious that the referee would not discuss his decision with me either at half time or at full time. He could have at least spoken to me but he didn't say a word."

Alan Dawson then pulled off a number of good saves and Harwood had their moments before St Helens broke and scored a third.

"They are a good side but I was upbeat with our performance," added Underwood. "The lads were disappointed with the referee after the game but they did okay.

"We will take this into the next three or so games and hopefully move away from the relegation spots."

Great Harwood's next game is at home to fellow strugglers Congleton on Saturday.

ST HELENS...3 GREAT HARWOOD...0