THE Football Association has confirmed that sin bins will be introduced for all non-league sides at step five and below for the coming season.

The only club in Herefordshire the rule will not apply to is Hereford FC, who play their league matches at step two.

Sin bins of 10 minutes will be issued by referees as a sanction for dissent in adult football, and will apply to all levels of grassroots football. Shorter sin bins will apply across youth football.

The FA successfully piloted sin bins during the 2017/18 season, and then extended this to a total of 31 leagues throughout the 2018/19 season.

Sin bins will be indicated by the referee showing a yellow card and clearly pointing to the touchline. This will result in a temporary dismissal from the pitch during which time the player is not allowed to be substituted or involved in the game in any way.

Unlike cautions, which will continue to be issued for unsporting behaviour and other offences, players will not be required to pay the £10 administration fee for a single temporary dismissal. A second temporary dismissal in a match will result in an exclusion from the game.

Mark Bullingham, The FA’s Chief Executive Officer, said: "The introduction of sin bins is a positive step for grassroots football. They allow referees to address incidents of dissent quickly and effectively.

"Dissent is a key part of the game that needs to be tackled, and our pilot phase has proved that sin bins work well. The trial showed a huge impact on behaviour that we want to roll out to the whole game and make it more enjoyable for everyone."

Simon Panes, Herefordshire FA CEO, added: “As a county we are committed to promoting respect in grassroots football and the introduction of Sin Bins will certainly contribute to this. When temporary dismissals were trialled last season, dissent was reduced by 38 per cent and over 70 per cent of players, managers and referees were in favour of the initiative.

"With purple shirts also being introduced in Herefordshire for young referees this season to remind participants and spectators that they are under 18 and deserve support, we feel this season will see a positive improvement in everyone’s matchday experience.”

Examples of dissent: For use of words or gestures questioning or undermining the ref’s decisions.
• Shouting at the ref
• Questioning ref’s ability
• Slamming the ball in to the ground
• Sarcastically clapping a decision