European soccer's governing body said Friday it is "determined to stop dissent and harassment of referees," and has instructed officials to take immediate action by cautioning players.
Anyone waving an imaginary card to indicate that an opponent be booked should receive a caution, UEFA said, as well as players who show dissent by gesturing or running toward the referee.
The association also asked match officials to caution at least one additional player if a team crowds around a referee to challenge a booking.
UEFA, which drew up the new guidelines after meeting with top referees in Switzerland this week, said they should apply immediately, starting with Saturday's 2008 European Championship qualifiers.
----
Please...
Anyone waving an imaginary card to indicate that an opponent be booked should receive a caution, UEFA said, as well as players who show dissent by gesturing or running toward the referee.
The association also asked match officials to caution at least one additional player if a team crowds around a referee to challenge a booking.
UEFA, which drew up the new guidelines after meeting with top referees in Switzerland this week, said they should apply immediately, starting with Saturday's 2008 European Championship qualifiers.
----
Please...