Torquay to give diving players the push

Last updated : 27 November 2006 By Andy Van Hagen
Torquay United have warned their players they face the sack if they repeatedly try to con the referee. The new initiative has been devised by Chairman, Chris Lewis. Lewis has said he wants to win football matches, but he wants to win matches without cheating. It is said the decision was devised after he was upset at the  amount of diving that was witnessed in the summer at the World Cup.

The club's board will consider video evidence from third parties up to five days after match. Only "clear" cases of player diving or feigning injury to gain an advantage will be addressed.

The player in question and his representative will attend hearings which will consist of club directors, CEO and the manager. If the hearings find that the player is guilty of diving in the
First offence the player cautioned. In the second offence he will recieve a final warning and a maximum fine. Should the player be found guilty of a third offence then the player will be transfer-listed or dismissed.