The 10 minutes Principle

In refereeing a match, there are certain periods in the match that require the referee to pay special attention. A study by Cardiff University found that this is true. The first 10 minutes of the match, five minutes before and after the break and the last 10 minutes. Often, there are a great number of incidents that happen during these periods. In addition, there are also certain 10 minutes periods that are identified as period where confrontation and problems may arise (for example, after a problem or an important goal scored). Referees need to adapt their control to the tempo of the game played. When things gets ‘hot’, the referee has to fine tune his approach in refereeing. This is not inconsistency but consistent to the rhythm and the misdemeanor or the players. Consistency is the way the referee controls the game and changes it according to the tempo of the play.
If after a strong decision taken by the referee: a penalty, a sent off, disallowing a goal for offside or other offences, the following period of 10 minutes need to be observed by assessor and also the referee, himself. If after that, his decisions are still strong, assertive, consistent and decisive, it shows the maturity of the referee and the composed personality he possessed. If his decisions, that follow are inconsistent, vague, indecisive, slow or error in his decisions or disciplinary sanctions, it only indicate the lack of experience, courage or strength in his characters. As a referee, awareness of these existing periods and reacting accordingly to the temperament of the play is important. Have a stronger action, grip it or let the flow of the game and chopping off any actions or misconducts with stern warning, cards or expulsion. Self-talk and self-motivation will help when you are alone in the middle, where your two assistants can give onlylimited assistances. Lastly, when "the going gets tough, the tough gets going" and of course, be "youself".