The PFA has reiterated its support for measures to address simulation in the A-League, including the issuing of retrospective yellow cards based on video evidence where it can be shown that simulation caused a referee to make an obvious error.
Football Federation Australia (FFA) decided against introducing the measures for the current A-League season when overhauling the A-League disciplinary regulations in the off-season. However, the PFA believes the current laws of the game and FIFA’s disciplinary code adequately empower referees and football associations to deal with simulation. In June, the PFA encouraged FFA to address simulation in a comprehensive written submission.
“Simulation is undoubtedly becoming more wide spread across the football world. The A-League – as a premier Asian competition – will feel the breeze of international football trends and behaviors for better or worse,” PFA Chief Executive Brendan Schwab said. “Simulation is contrary to football’s principles of fair play. It is cheating designed to win an underserved benefit from the opposition, such as a free kick, a penalty or even to have an opposition player sent off.
“Simulation has not been widespread in the A-League. Australian players do need to deal with it, especially by not becoming emotionally upset by opponents that seek to take unfair advantage through simulation. But as the stakes in the A-League become higher, simulation will become more widespread if players and, in particular, their coaches can see an advantage being obtained that will translate into results. We would fully support FFA taking a stand now before it is a major problem,” Schwab added.
