NEWCASTLE director of rugby Steve Diamond has called for more accountability in refereeing decisions after receiving a six-match ban for verbal abuse towards match officials.

Diamond appeared before an independent disciplinary panel and was given the suspension after admitting the charge, which took place during Falcons’ 17-15 Premiership defeat to Exeter.

A controversial finish saw Greg Fisilau’s try snatch a last-minute victory and Diamond was unhappy after feeling there was an illegal clear-out ruck in the build-up to the game-winning score.