After several flashpoints last season and coaches under instructions not to criticise officials, the FFA has moved to develop a closer relationship between the clubs and the men in the middle.

In the build up to kick-off, a short meeting will be held where the referee will explain what he expects during the course of 90 minutes with the two skippers and the respective coaches also able to offer their thoughts.

Only the captain will be permitted to speak to the referee during the match and all the clubs have had presentations from officials to explain that dissent is not going to be tolerated.

Another fresh initiative is the formalising of post-match etiquette. All A-League matches begin with the players lining up to shake hands.

From the start of the new season both sides will be expected to assemble in the centre circle at the end of the game to shake hands once again - ensuring the match ends in the right spirit.