London: A first world-trial of red and yellow cards for misbehaving coaches and other football team officials will be initiated in Australia.
The first of its kind trial will be seen implemented in domestic men’s and women’s leagues- the A-League and W-League – when it starts this weekend.
The move was given nod by the International Football Advisory Board, which comprises the four British football associations — England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland— and world body FIFA.
Though the referees earlier also had the authority to dispel coaches, the use of cards will make their barring explicit for spectators and television viewers just as it happens with the players.
“It will help fans and viewers better understand the issues that match officials face on a weekly basis and help promote respect towards them,” A-League boss Greg O’Rourke was quoted as saying by The Independent.
He also believed that the decision taken would send a strong message throughout the game at grassroots level, adding that poor behaviour towards match officials and opposition team officials is ‘unacceptable’ and ‘carries consequences’.
“The ideal outcome of the trial is to improve behaviour from within the technical area towards match officials and also between team benches,” he said.
Red card would be issued in offences like throwing and kicking water bottles, spitting at any person, insulting someone or using abusive language while issuing of two yellows cards in a single match will result in sending off and suspension from the next game.
Meanwhile, cautions will be given for inappropriate behaviour which includes dissent, provocative gesturing and entering the opposition’s technical area. (ANI)