FA to take down the fall guys
LIVERPOOL fans have voted overwhelmingly in favour of ‘safe standing’. In a comprehensive poll organised by the club’s supporters’ union Spirit of Shankly, 88 per cent backed the creation of railseating areas inside grounds. But the group will not yet push for the measures to be introduced at Anfield, recognising how sensitive the issue is for the Hillsborough Family Support Group. In a statement, Spirit of Shankly said: “There are no winners or losers. We would encourage those campaigning for the introduction of rail-seating areas to ensure all views are heard and to ensure the questions and concerns of those opposed are addressed.” And its chairman Jay McKenna (above) added: “People will see this as backing rail seating. However, we say to anyone campaigning for this to understand sensitivities and respect the views of those who disagree.” ENGLISH football’s fightback against diving cheats begins on Friday night – with two-match bans for players who dupe referees with simulation.
And players wrongly sent off for two bookable offences will have their automatic bans rescinded if one of the yellow cards was awarded in error due to opponents feigning contact.
Sunderland’s opening Championship game with Derby at the Stadium of Light will be the first competitive game subject to the FA’s crackdown on play-acting.
The FA decided to move after top managers, led by Burnley’s Sean Dyche and West Brom boss Tony Pulis, flagged up concerns that games were increasingly decided by referees being hoodwinked by fall guys.
From this weekend, the FA will act where there is “clear and overwhelming evidence” of a case to answer – such as Hull’s Robert Snodgrass falling over thin air to win a penalty against Crystal Palace last season.
A three-man panel, with a manager, ex-player and former referee, will review incidents separately, usually within 48 hours.