D-Day Looms for Newcastle Falcons Boss Steve Diamond This Friday
04/10/2025 05:17 PM
Newcastle Falcons boss Steve Diamond is set for a date with the disciplinary panel this Friday following alleged verbal abuse aimed at match officials during the Gallagher Premiership clash against Exeter Chiefs on March 29.
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The Falcons suffered a narrow 17-15 defeat at Sandy Park, but Diamond's frustration wasn't just with the scoreboard.
Not his first rodeo…
Diamond, who has never been one to hold back, has been charged with conduct prejudicial to the interests of the game and/or union after some choice words about the officiating.
The incident reportedly happened post-match, with Diamond fuming about a try awarded to Exeter despite what he believed was clear foul play in the build-up.
Diamond's dig at the TMO
In classic Diamond fashion, he didn't mince his words.
"This one was decided by the officials," he said. "There is a clear act of foul play in the lead-up to the try, and I don't know for the life of me why the TMO doesn't have a look at it at least."
And he didn't stop there.
"If we are going to take foul play out of the game, then let's not waste time and just look at forward passes to see whether a try is a try or a try is not a try."
"I am disappointed with the officials, but fair play to Exeter; they kept going, like we kept going, and someone has to lose, and it was us today."
Diamond rounded off by criticising the officials' decision not to check a key moment:
"The TMO must see. I didn't see it live, so it's difficult for the referee in that position. But on the first recall I see of it, it's ridiculous. Callum asked the ref to check it, but nothing."
Who is Steve Diamond?
A no-nonsense northerner and former hooker, Steve Diamond is one of the most colourful and controversial figures in English rugby. Known for his brutally honest interviews and confrontational touchline presence, Diamond previously held long-term roles at Sale Sharks and Worcester Warriors before stepping into the hot seat at Kingston Park in 2024. He's developed a reputation as both a shrewd operator and a serial provocateur when it comes to match officials.
With Diamond now in the dock once again, all eyes will be on Friday's hearing to see if the outspoken boss has crossed the line—or simply spoken the truth too loudly.
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CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO
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