The referee who sent off a Queen's Park player for unveiling a t-shirt bearing a tribute to his late manager has said it was one of the hardest decisions he’s ever had to make.

Flintshire official Dan Fogerty took charge of the Cymru Alliance game between Park and Llandudno Junction on a sombre day for the Caia Park club.

More than 300 fans and family members turned out to pay tribute to former boss Martin Ford, who died earlier this month.

An emotionally-charged game at Stansty Park began with a rousing minute's applause for club founder and former boss Ford, whose picture was carried onto the pitch before kick-off.

But after netting Park's second goal in the 3-2 defeat, midfielder Adam Roberts removed his Park shirt and ran towards the home supporters to reveal a t-shirt bearing the slogan 'RIP Fordy'.

Having been booked for a late challenge minutes earlier, Roberts was dismissed as Fogerty issued a second yellow card.

Now facing criticism from fans on social media, Fogerty said the decision was the 'hardest' of his officiating career.

He said: "I completely understand that the decision upset people on what was a very emotional day for the club.

"I have been around the game of football all my life and I know that days like Saturday can be very tough for clubs and supporters.

"But as a referee I'm expected to remain impartial at all times and apply the laws of the game.

"The player had been booked for a late tackle just before the goal and while I understand that emotions were running high, under FIFA laws what he did was a bookable offence.

"To be honest it was the toughest decision I've had to make as a referee. But my job is to make these decisions and enforce them, no matter what the circumstances."

Interim Park manager Mark Davies was left frustrated by the decision and confronted Fogerty at the final whistle.

Davies said: "It was a massive shame for the lad. He's just scored a terrific goal and he's taken his shirt off in the heat of the moment with a dedication to Martin written on his shirt underneath.

"I asked the referee afterwards why he's not just looked the other way for it in this situation, but he's just said to me you've been around long enough to know that can't happen in a game.

"It's a massive pity, because it was very emotional day for everyone."