Lewington's plea to refs

Ray Lewington today warned that Watford could be on their knees unless referees are instructed to change their tough stance.

Watford had Paolo Vernazza sent off for a second bookable offence in their 1-1 draw at home to Burnley last night, which was their third red card of the season. There were seven other bookings.

"It can't go on," said Lewington. "We've had three players sent off so far and we haven't made a bad tackle."

Vernazza was dismissed in the 65th minute by referee Andy Hall after a challenge on David May. "Referees should be sure there is intent before booking players. We're working with smaller squads now in this division and suspensions are going to slaughter us.

"Anyone not at the game would have thought it was a bloodbath with the number of yellow cards but it just wasn't like that. It really is ridiculous."

Watford conceded a penalty in the first half when Danny Webber was harshly ruled to have handled the ball but Burnley's Robbie Blake fired wide from the spot.

The home side took the lead through Scott Fitzgerald just before half-time but Luke Chadwick equalised early in the second half. "We needed the three points in our position," said Lewington. "But it is a start.

"We played with some conviction which was encouraging. This group of players is what we have to work with and this group will get us out of trouble. The penalty was very harsh. What are you supposed to do when someone smashes the ball at you from 10 yards?"