Red-carded footballer drove onto pitch and tried to run over referee

An enraged amateur footballer drove on to the pitch and tried to run over the referee after being sent off. Joseph Rimmer, 28, attempted to plough into referee David Harkness after being shown the red card while playing for Southport and District Sunday league team Lonsdale. The club were playing against rivals Harrington at council football pitches in Portland Street, Southport, on Valentine’s Day when trouble flared.

Liverpool crown court heard how after being sent off by Mr Harkness, Rimmer ran off the pitch and got into a car. He then drove his vehicle on to the pitches aiming for Mr Harkness. The referee was able to get out the way of the oncoming car and was not harmed in the incident.



But it is understood Rimmer then got out his car and shouted threats at him before driving away. Wearing a shirt and tie, shaven-headed Rimmer yesterday appeared for trial at Liverpool Crown Court charged with affray and dangerous driving on February 14.

Philip Tully, defending, told the court Rimmer would admit the offence of affray and prosecutors had been already been told it would be a guilty plea rather than a trial. Mr Tully told the court Rimmer’s intention was to get the game called off. Judge Adrian Lyon agreed to adjourn sentencing until November 19. He further granted Rimmer bail on the conditions he is not to go to any Southport and District league games as a player or a spectator and is banned from contacting Mr Harkness.