STAN Ternent today criticised the £25,000 fine imposed on Bury for the brawl at Bradford City in December.

Both clubs must pay £5,000 now with another £20,000 suspended until the end of next season.

But the Shakers boss believes they do not deserve to be punished so severely for the mass scuffle at the end of the 1-0 First Division defeat at Valley Parade.

"We have been very harshly treated," said Ternent.

"You only have to look at all the other similar incidents which have happened and where no action has been taken against the clubs.

"On Sunday, for example, everybody watching the television match between Arsenal and West Ham saw punches being thrown at the final whistle.

"It was no less serious than our case but the referee has decised in that case that he is not going to report it so no action will be taken.

"I don't think it is right. A small club like ours with gates of 5,000 cannot afford £25,000."

The fine was imposed when the two clubs were found guilty of general misconduct by a Football Association disciplinary hearing yesterday.

It was in the fifth minute of stoppage time when Bradford's Brazilian striker Edinho was fouled by Bury defender Peter Swan, who felt the South American had made too much of the offence and kicked the ball at the grounded forward, sparking the mass brawl.

Referee Graham Frankland dismissed both Edinho and Swan and cautioned Dean Kiely. He then reported both clubs for "general misconduct." Bury pleaded guilty to the offence.

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