I couldn't really give a **** about this.
I would be surprised if there were many top-flight matches at the time that weren't subject to a spread betting scam.
That doesn't excuse it but frankly it's a minor thing.
As for people moaning about giving the ball away, the punt off the wing is still used today and there's something to be said for gaining a territorial advantage early on. Personally, I **** myself every time Saints have a throw-in near our own goal line.
This was a play that could have actually helped the team - it's completely different from letting a goal in or missing a sitter on purpose.