Steve The Ref

SATURDAY'S man in the middle is Steve Rushton, who is in his fifth season as a Football League referee.

He has officiated nine games this season, handing out 21 yellow cards and two reds.

The previous time Steve, 38, reffed us was at Home Park early last season when we drew 1-1 with Southend United.

Alex MacDonald gave us the lead in the 50th minute but Britt Assombalonga levelled four minutes later.

Southend substitute Barry Corr was sent off nine minutes from time after tangling with Argyle skipper Darren Purse.

Away from the pitch, Steve is a PE teacher at Cheslyn Hay Sport & Community High School, near Cannock - a 1,500-pupil seat of learning for 11 to 18-year-olds.

Steve's father, Jim, was also a Football League referee, and Steve is supporting the next generation of officials by running a referees' academy at Cheslyn Hay, for about a dozen teenage up-and-comers.