Bennett wary of final diving

FA Cup / Editor / 18 May 2007 / Leave a Comment

Betfair punters will be alerted to comments from referee Steve Bennett that he will find it difficult to spot possible diving antics in the FA Cup final.

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has already stated that he is concerned that 'diving' could spoil the Wembley showpiece - with players from both teams accused of theatrics throughout this season.

Bennett is the man who has to make the crunch decisions on Saturday and admits it will be difficult to be certain of cheating.
The experienced referee said: "There are some very clever players who instigate contact and make it difficult for the referee.
"Sometimes there's contact but an exaggerated reaction to try to deceive the referee. It's nigh-on impossible to be sure. I hope we keep on top of it."

Bennett has had run-ins with both Mourinho and Sir Alex Ferguson in the past, but insists history will not have a bearing on how he officiates the final.

Those who think the referee might brandish a red card on Saturday can back 'Yes' at 3.85 in the 'Sending Off?' market, while 'No' is available at 1.32.

In the Cup Final specials section, the 'First Card' market enables customers to bet on which team will receive the first booking. Chelsea are the 1.84 favourites, with United on offer at 2.08 and no card can be backed at 26.