That's why you should get everything on e-mail. Someone once pulled this bullshit on me in the office, and from then on I usually ask for written instructions before I proceed. If it not in writing, and clear then I am not doing it. People can act stupid when the fire comes down and blame you for the bullshit.
That team team leader ain't shit, as well as the manager. Also contract worker should be treated with respect, they work just as head count. Threatening them like that is anxiety enducing, wrong and disgusting.
I'm starting to think people hate the ML because he doesn't kiss ass, and isn't about the BS.