Allegations of interference by a Far East betting syndicate in Monday night's abandoned Premier League match have been dismissed by police.

Newspaper reports on Wednesday claimed that high-powered Asian businessmen were behind the floodlight failure during the game between Wimbledon and Arsenal at Selhurst Park in south-east London.

Supt. John Lansley says it is likely the failure was mechanical (0'41")

But Supt John Lansley, who is heading the investigation, said he does not suspect foul play.

"While it is early in the investigation, the blackout would appear to have been caused by a breakdown."

"Fans' money should be refunded"

The chairman of the Players' Football Association (PFA), Gordon Taylor, has called for an inquiry into the number of floodlight failures so far this season.

"At Premier League level there is enough money for a back-up generator and if that's not done, the fans should have their money back," he said.

"This is the third time it's happened. It's not the sort of standards you expect when there is so much money in the game."

But a spokesman for bookmakers William Hill was swift to highlight how speculation can spread through the industry.

"It's such a small global industry these days that a rumour in Outer Mongolia can sweep its way very quickly to our office in Wood Green, north London.

"I wouldn't give too much credence to these stories," he said.

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