Tue 21 Nov 06
Divers Down, Maybe Out
Coca-Cola Football League Two side Torquay United are going on the offensive against players who dive:
Chairman Chris Roberts introduced the initiative after he was left “disgusted” by players diving and feigning injury during the World Cup.
He told BBC Sport: “It’s only getting worse and I sincerely believe clubs have to stand up and take reponsibility for the conduct of their players.
“I want to win football matches but I want to win matches without cheating.”
The new initiative works on the “three strikes” system.
Players found guilty of clearly trying to gain an advantage by diving or feigning injury will be warned on the first two occasions, then placed on the transfer list or dismissed if they transgress a third time.
This follows Roy Keane’s condemnation of feigned falls in the Premiership.
Paul Canniff
