'I'm not questioning the referee's integrity, I'm just saying he was rubbish,' blasted a visibly frustrated Steve Evans, after his Stevenage side lost 2-1 at League One leaders Portsmouth on New Year's Day.

Stevenage boss Evans criticised referee Charles Breakspear after the official sent off Boro's Nathan Thompson and Evans' No2 Paul Rayner.

The controversial red cards came in the closing moments of Stevenage's defeat that came in front of 18,891 fans at Fratton Park on the first day of 2024.

Evans was left furious after Breakspear handed Thompson a straight red for a challenge on Christian Saydee that also saw assistant manager Raynor sent from the touchline.

Furious Evans called Breakspear's officiating 'horrendous' as his side lost to table toppers Pompey.

On a frustrating afternoon on the south coast Evans saw his side slip out of the play-off places as Portsmouth consolidated their lead at the top of the third tier.

Paddy Lane put the home side ahead in the 12th minute only for Louis Thompson to nod the visitors back on level terms, prior to Colby Bishop's 33rd minute winner.

Read Nub News on Tuesday for more furious reaction from Evans.