Question Number: 20345

Character, Attitude and Control 10/22/2008

RE: Rec Adult

Justin Harper of baltimore, Md United states asks...

Ok I'm watching the Houston U.N.A.M match FSC. During one of the scuffles arond the 40th minute or so players from both teams are arguing around the box after a free kick is awarded. The ref is trying to calm everyone down and I notice one of the Houston players goes and gives one of the U.N.A.M players the middle finger. Right in front of the referee. However I'm not sure if the ref was paying much attentino to this specific player.

Anyway I was wondering if something like this type of situation falls under a yellow card offense for Dissent by word or action to another player or referee. Or a red card offense for the use of serous and foul language by chance. That is assuming the middle finger is the global hand gesture for the word i wont mention here. Or I am just looking too far into this?

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

OFFINABUS includes Language and or Gestures! Middle finger is a not saying look at the ring finger beside it is it now? Some things you need to ignore at this level simply because you will find enough on to many players not to apply the same send off principles for being obnoxious butt heads. Admittedly in a youth match much less inclined to let it pass. I think the conduct of many of the players deplorable but then no one pays me for an opinion. Fans want to see a match not a referee send off the players for being rude. Unsafe perhaps but rude? Not really. MLS is a hard task master when it comes to putting out the garbage. Emotions are part of the game let them be manly men, do not look for trouble, bigger fish to fry etc...
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

It could not be dissent because that is addressed only toward the referee and his decisions. How can a player dissent with what an opponent thinks or says, when that opponent's opinion means nothing?

Ref Dawson brings up some good points regarding the professional-level games. In addition, these players all know each other. The gestures could be like trash-talking - you say the words, but there is no vehemence behind them.

Still, it doesn't present the best role model for fans watching the game.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

Dissent must be directed at the referee. It could be considered unsporting behavior which is cautionable. The universal gesture certainly falls under insulting behavior and a send-off could be considered. Were the player U14 boys, it would be automatic for most of us. But these players are professional and referees allow them great latitude as to their words and actions. I doubt many professional referees would send off a player for this