WISBECH Town boss Steve Appleby said the strict refereeing was “laughable” after his side shared six goals and two red cards with CRC last night.

The Fenmen were 2-0 up inside 15 minutes after new-boy Denny Escorcio’s right-wing trickery created goals for Adam Millson and Chris Bacon.

But, soon afterwards, Paul Cousins conceded a penalty and was booked. The former Fenmen skipper was shown a second yellow card for dissent – and a CRC fight-back ensured they went in level at 2-2 at the break.

Bacon converted a second-half penalty but CRC, who had a man sent off with 10 minutes to go, equalised again amidst a flurry of yellow cards.

Appleby said: “It was laughable and it makes you wonder if they want to completely ban tackling and any sort of passion from the game.

“I’m proud of the lads. We played 70 minutes with 10 men, so I think they’ve done brilliantly.

“We were 2-0 up and coasting – playing some really good stuff. Then the ref gave a harsh penalty and booked Paul Cousins. Paul supposedly said something to him and got a second yellow card.

“We were on the back foot then but we got our heads together at half time.

“It was a cracking game of football but the disappointing thing is that someone else - who is not playing - has affected the game.”

Appleby also praised former March Town United winger Escorcio who has impressed up front and on the right hand side in his first two games.

The Fenmen boss said: “Denny has settled in well. He’s been very lively and he looks like he’s got plenty in his locker.”

Bacon got Wisbech’s winner in a 1-0 victory over Wivenhoe Town on Saturday.

The Fenmen host Felixstowe & Walton United in the Ridgeons Premier Division on Saturday (Kick-off 3pm).