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'The system is flawed' - Diamond on six-match ban

Related Topics: Steve Diamond

Newcastle Falcons consultant director of rugby Steve Diamond says the sport's disciplinary process "is flawed" as he begins a six-match ban against Northampton Saints on Friday.

Diamond, 56, was given the suspension for abusing match officials at the end of a 17-15 defeat at Exeter Chiefs on 29 March.

He was upset about Exeter's match-winning try in the last minute being awarded and angrily confronted the officials after the game.

Diamond admitted the charge, describing the incident as a "huge mistake", but says more experienced officials may be needed.

He said: "There's a problem with the disciplinary system, not a problem with the referees.