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System is flawed, says banned Diamond
The Gazette
|April 16, 2025
NEWCASTLE director of rugby Steve Diamond has called for more accountability in refereeing decisions after receiving a six-match ban for verbal abuse towards match officials.
Diamond appeared before an independent disciplinary panel and was given the suspension after admitting the charge, which took place during Falcons’ 17-15 Gallagher Premiership defeat to Exeter.
A controversial finish saw Greg Fisilau’s try snatch a last-minute victory and Diamond was unhappy after feeling there was an illegal clear-out ruck in the build-up to the game-winning score.
Speaking ahead of Friday's meeting with Northampton, Diamond described the Exeter incident as a “huge mistake” and suggested more experienced officials may be needed.
He said: “There's a problem with the disciplinary system, not the panel's make-up - they're good - and not a problem with the referees.
“There's only people like me prepared to say things about it, but it’s not the first time these things have happened.
This story is from the April 16, 2025 edition of The Gazette.
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