Black card introduced

[ChasObserverRefDeveloper]

The Romanian FA have introduced a black card to indicate "Match abandoned because of spectator behaviour" in games at ages up to U-16.
Firstly a ten-minute "players off, match suspended" takes place, then the final sanction, if needed, because of ongoing spectator behaviour.
As match officials already have the power to discontinue the game for safety reasons, I wonder whether the use of a card will make any difference(?)

 

[socal lurker]

I’m really curious the catalyst for this. It’s possible that having the card as the communication devise will make it easier for young or new refs to pull the trigger. And having the card to carry reminds them they have the power to do it. And I think it helps leagues manage coaches—“we’ve told the refs to carry the black card and not be afraid to use it.” And coaches can use that with the parents.

While I’m not convinced cards to coaches have added anything at the professional level, I think for youth refs and coaches, they are great—far easier for a young or anxious ref to show the card a coach than explain that he is officially being warned and is subject to dismissal. The card clearly communicates to the coach that he is on thin ice in a way that a new coach may not understand when just told. Maybe the black card will have similar affect. I think it will be all about implementation.

 

[one]

Agree with @socal lurker. It shouldn't make any difference for experienced and confident referees. But for those less experienced or less confident who need the ability to abandon the most, it should make a big difference. It allows them to use the tool but minimise confrontation.