What should a referee do if they witness an unsporting act that does not warrant a red card?

Issuing a yellow card for unsporting behavior is the appropriate course of action when a referee witnesses an act that is not severe enough to merit a red card but still goes against the spirit of the game. A yellow card serves not only as a caution to the player involved but also as a signal to the rest of the players and the crowd that the behavior is being addressed. This maintains the integrity of the match and encourages fair play.

When a referee chooses to issue a yellow card, it reinforces the expectations for player behavior and can help to deter similar actions in the future. By documenting the unsporting behavior in this way, the referee takes a balanced approach, addressing the incident without disproportionately punishing the player. This decision reflects a standard practice within the laws of the game, ensuring that all players understand the importance of sportsmanship.