KENT League side Herne Bay have sacked player-coach Dave Ward following an incident involving referee Arif Khalfe in Saturday’s FA Vase Second Qualifying Round exit by Colliers Wood United.

Ward had been shown two yellow cards by the London official.

It’s understood that Mr Khalfe threatened to abandon the tie but decided to complete the match after consulting both assistants.

Bay chairman John Bathurst fears the club could also face an FA rap but is still waiting to see the referee’s report.

Manager Jason Lillis refused to comment on the incident yesterday (Wednesday) but he spoke to Ward, a friend for over 15 years, earlier this week who said he was "absolutely gutted and distraught" about what happened.