For Refs with ARs this might be of use. FRom the guidlines we were given.
When an AR has flagged foul play the procedure to follow is:
- Keep Calm!
Ensure sides are separated 2nd AR can marshal that while you talk to the reporting AR.
- The referee Leads to discussion at all times.
- Tell the AR what you have seen.
- Ask the AR to add anything that he has seen but that you missed.
- Tell the AR what your call is going to be. Based on the evidence as presented.
Eg.
“OK we’ve both seen the same thing. On the basis of what I saw I am thinking Penalty only / Yellow / Red. Do you agree?”
Or
“On the basis of your report, I am thinking Penalty only / Yellow / Red. Have I got that right?”
The AR has a chance to indicate whether you have missed something important.
Of course, you may wish to speak to both ARs in the process.
Finally tell the captain / players exactly what was seen and what the call is. Use phrases such as “Based on the AR’s report, this is what happened, and this is the outcome”.
Or
(if it is a call based on evidence you saw) “Red 5, I saw …. You leave me no choice! … etc)
You may then wish to ask captains to “speak to their players about discipline etc if you think it appropriate.
Perhaps it is easier as we don’t ever have “home ARs” so integrity is never really in question.
As the AR.
Stick to the facts when asked. If the referee's evidence show he's seen the same as you just confirm: "yep that what I saw" Do not offer a recomendation. Only give one IF the referee asks for you to do so.
THis came for a very senior guy in the "office". One who did not follow the advice on the field! After a pice of foul play seen by the entire stadium (I'm sure) his comment to the, then slightly more junior, referee as the ref was walking towards the touchline were "Fred. Blue 7 headbutted Black 9, As clear a red as you'll see." It was picked up clearly on the TV audio. Still it didn't harm either career.