AFC Telford United boss Rob smith has given his backing to a new “zero tolerance” disciplinary policy that will rule in the Blue Square North this season.Smith got the inside track on the new regime at a manager’s meeting with league officials yesterday, likening the changes to the code of conduct seen in rugby.

Among the changes, match officials will be told to clamp down on any backchat from players or coaches, issuing immediate yellow cards for dissent. Teams will also be encouraged to channel all communication with the referee through the team captain.

The Blue Square leagues are also being used to trial a new rule, where any manager sent from the touchline will not be allowed to remain inside the stadium and watch the rest of the game.

Smith, who is no stranger to clashes with authority, might be expected to rile at the proposals – but he has given them his warm support.

“There are letters being sent out to clubs telling us they will be dealing with captains more, and it’s getting more towards how things are run in rugby,” he said.

“Surprisingly enough, though, I like that idea. I love the way rugby is run in that respect and I think it would stop a lot of problems.

“I do think we need to do something, but I think it actually starts at the top. They made the point yesterday that our league is nowhere near as bad as the Premier.”

Smith, who will serve the last of a six-game touchline ban at Stalybridge on Saturday, also insisted the changes would have a positive effect on his own conduct and that of assistant Larry Chambers.

On the change to the rule affecting managers sent from the dugout, he added: “It makes it a big incentive not to get sent off. It’s zero tolerance and we know where we stand this year.

“I don’t think I’ll have a problem. I think you’ll see a bit of a change in us this year.”

By Chris Hudson