Sydney FC has suffered match suspensions for its goalkeeper coach, Zeljko Kalac, and player, Joel Griffiths.
Both have been reprimanded for abusive and heavy language and in Kalac’s case, will have to watch his team from the sidelines for three weeks.
Griffiths has also suffered a three match ban after he was red carded during Sydney’s match against Melbourne Victory.
Head of Hyundai A-League, Damien de Bohun, said that the suspension of Griffiths sent a message to all A-League players that abusive language towards match officials is totally unacceptable.
“Abuse of match officials is a blight on football at every level, from the grassroots to the professional tier,” said de Bohun.
“A-League players have a particular responsibility to behave respectfully towards officials. The players’ conduct is on show to tens of thousands of fans on TV and in our venues every week. The example they set – good or bad – is liable to be replicated down the line.
“The vast majority of A-League players are wonderful role models, but we won’t tolerate abusive language, no matter what the circumstances.”
Griffiths admitted to the offence and it was taken into consideration by the FFA.