WORCESTER College Old Boys have leapt to the defence of substitute Paul Cox after his challenge left Oxford City midfielder Justin Lee badly injured, writes RUSSELL SMITH.

Lee was taken to Oxford's John Radcliffe Hospital after being caught by Cox during Old Boys' 4-1 defeat in the Oxfordshire Senior Cup at Court Place Farm last Tuesday.

Lee suffered a double fracture of the same leg 18 months ago, and although there was no break this time, he faces several weeks on the sidelines.

City manager Paul Lee described the challenge as "reckless, to say the least" and suggested video evidence may be used after the match officials missed the challenge.

But Old Boys secretary Bob Oakes - although sympathising with Justin Lee - felt, that after seeing the video, Cox shouldn't receive any punishment.

He said: "We are upset that the boy has been injured and rang up Oxford City on Wednesday night to ask how he was.

"But as far as I can see, the challenge that injured him was purely accidental.

"Justin Lee has crossed the ball left-footed and our player has slid in with his left foot up to try and block the ball and, as he slid through, his trailing foot has caught Justin Lee's standing foot.

"There was nothing intentional or deliberate."

Oakes added that they weren't happy that a member of City's coaching staff had threatened Cox while he was on the field.

Oxfordshire FA disciplinary secretary David Hovard had an open mind on whether video evidence could be used.

He said: "I don't see any reason why it shouldn't be used at our level, but we would need to seek advice."

Story date: Tuesday 08 February

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