YORK City Knights boss James Ford “could not help” but lament a controversial refereeing performance after seeing his side snatch a 21-21 draw with Doncaster.

Ford criticised Brandon Robinson’s interpretation of the lying-on rule, having allowed Doncaster to gain what the Knights boss deemed unfair advantages at several tackles.

Robinson also penalised Chris Siddons for interference when on another day the penalty could have gone the other way for a shove on the prop – the Dons scoring from that particular free-kick.

A late drop goal by Connor Robinson and last-second penalty miss by the Dons nevertheless earned York the point that sealed a play-off berth in League One.

Said Ford: “I was not going to speak about the referee - but I can’t help myself.

“The biggest issue for me is I don’t think he knows what a win or loss is at a play-the-ball.

“I will send him examples. There were four or five at least in the second half when our player gets a win and the defender’s clinging on – these were the clearest definitions of a win, and their player is allowed to climb back on (and delay the play-the-ball).”

He added: “The focus of attention is on referees far too often, but he’s had a massive impact on this game. His understanding of a win and loss in a play-the-ball was probably the worst I’ve ever seen.

“Apart from that he did alright.”