CREWE ALEX boss Lee Bell was livid that James McClean was allowed to stay on the pitch after the winger’s part in a first-half dust-up in Wrexham’s 3-0 win.

Bell accused the officials of failing to take action against the Irishman, who reacted angrily after a late challenge by Aaron Rowe which ended with Reds’ goalscorer Ollie Palmer acting as peacemaker.

Referee Seb Stockbridge handed out yellow cards to both McClean and Rowe, but after the break pulled out a red to send off Alex defender Ryan Cooney.

“I’m bitterly disappointed to lose at home again as we had looked much better and with a lot more energy,” said Bell, whose fourth-placed side have still not secured their play-off place.

“It was a very even game but then there was a flash-point in the first half which was absolutely ridiculous and I’m quite kind to referees.

“I know James but he should have been sent off – but Wrexham aren’t bothered and the referees aren’t bothered. When I got sent-off recently I was told that I wasn’t being aggressive, but when you start putting fingers in mouth and putting your head towards people you should be sent off.”