A new "zero-tolerance policy rolled out on Wednesday" by the Premier League and English Football Leagues aims to "crack down on the abuse and dissent" leveled at referees and match officials, according to Harry Yorke of the London TELEGRAPH. Following a "surge in confrontational and abusive behaviour" toward referees in last season's Premier League, the new initiative "will instruct referees to take a no-nonsense approach enforced rigorously through the awarding of more yellow and red cards." Execs from the Premier League, FA and English Football League "hope the decision will prove a meaningful step" toward cleansing the game of swearing and abusive language, physical contact and the intimidation of officials by crowding around them (TELEGRAPH, 7/20). The AP reported a "show-reel of shame" produced by English football authorities is being shown to players at the Premier League's 20 clubs ahead of the new season "as part of the latest crackdown on bad behavior." Premier League Chair Richard Scudamore said, "We're looking to make a step change in the way our participants behave and how they are seen around the world." It is a "delicate balancing act for the league," which does not want to see the "intense competitiveness disappear from its competition." Even Scudamore acknowledged it was a "guilty pleasure" watching the "fiery and engrossing game" between Chelsea and Tottenham last season that led to both teams being fined over a fracas. Scudamore: "I felt an element of it was not right. But you couldn't go away from the game thinking it wasn't compelling" (AP, 7/20). REUTERS' Martyn Herman reported insulting or abusive language or gestures toward match officials "will result in a straight red card next season, as will aggressive physical contact." Yellow cards "will be shown for a variety of disrespectful behaviour, including responding aggressively to a decision" or running toward an official to contest a call. Mass surroundings of referees "will also be punished with bookings to at least one of the players." Scudamore said, "Things happen in the heat of the moment during fast and highly competitive football. We still want to see the passion fans enjoy and demand, but players and managers have to be aware there are lines that should not be crossed." Football League CEO Richard Harvey said that "the new directives were not just an idle threat." Harvey: "To be clear, this is a set of instructions from the football authorities to referees to take action against certain behavior that we will not tolerate in our matches" (REUTERS, 7/20).
