SOUTHEND Saxons’ former chairman Neil Harding has slammed Lydney for the aggressive way they reacted to Charlie Daniel’s controversial red card during Saturday’s National Two South clash between the two teams.

Daniel was dismissed after tangling with Saxons’ skipper Kris Chesney midway through the second half.

But Harding was left stunned and saddened by Lydney’s reaction to the decision “What happened was the nearest I have witnessed to anarchy in a rugby ground,” said Harding.

“My personal reaction was that the red card was also very harsh on the Lydney player but the reaction from their coaching staff was disgraceful.

“Foul and abusive language was being yelled at both the touch judge and referee.

“After five more minutes a member of the Lydney coaching staff was sent to the stand for verbal abuse which I witnessed on at least five occasions as the touch judge ran past.

“This then encouraged the crowd to get involved and the atmosphere became very intimidating towards the match officials.”

But, despite being reduced to 14 men, Lydney were still able to fight back and win the game 25-20.

However, Harding also felt the officials were pressured in to making more controversial decisions late on.

“I would say the atmosphere led to a number of curious decisions going against Southend with an under pressure referee reacting to the intimidation,” said Harding.

“Lydney deserved the win as we were out of sorts but rugby was the loser with the reactions towards the match officials going over an acceptable line that should never be crossed.”