FA introduce 10-minute sin bins across grassroots football in bid to tackle dissent

Successfully implemented in other sports, the governing body hopes to reduce dissent with the introduction of temporary dismissals

The FA have announced they will introduce sin bins across all levels of grassroots football this season.

Temporary dismissals of 10 minutes will afford referees an extra measure to control games in a bid to reduce dissent.

The FA claim a testing phase saw 38 per cent reduction in dissent with the new disciplinary rule.

“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 as part of its commitment to improve the match day experience for all,” the FA said in a statement.

“After gathering positive feedback from players, referees and coaches, sin bins will now be rolled out across all leagues at grassroots level in a bid to increase participation and to continue improving match day experiences.

“The mandatory rule change will be implemented up to Step 5 of the National League System and Tier 3 and below in women’s football.”

Players who show dissent will be shown a yellow card while the referee points to the touch line to indicate a player has been sent to the sin bin. Two such temporary dismissals will result in the player being sent off.

Referees will be able to hand out sin bins at grassroots level (AFP/Getty)

“Dissent is a key part of the game that needs to be tackled, and our pilot phase has proved that sin bins work well,” FA CEO Mark Bullingham said.

“They allow referees to address incidents of dissent quickly and effectively. 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.”