Albion players face heavy fines under a new code of conduct introduced by manager Micky Adams.

He has taken firm action to avoid a repeat of the team's poor disciplinary record last season, which led to the club being hauled before the FA yesterday.

Adams and finance director Bob Pinnock had to account for the nine red and 76 yellow cards accumulated by the first team at Lancaster Gate.

Their punishment, expected to be a suspended fine, will be confirmed next week.

Adams said: "We had a fair hearing from a three-man commission. We had to explain the record last season and what steps we are taking to improve it.

"We have got a new code of conduct this season, which all the players have signed.

"If they step out of line they will be severely punished. They will be hit heavily in the pocket.'

Albion's previously unblemished record and a marked improvement in discipline in the second half of last season has saved them from a tougher verdict.

Added Adams: "We have to wait for their decision, but they intimated it will be a suspended fine because of our past record.

"The commission could see from the beginning of the new year the discipline improved dramatically and that helped us.

"But we were left in no doubt that it has got to improve, which I quite agree with.

"I am not expecting similar problems this season."

Albion were among six clubs ordered by the FA to explain their high card counts.

The others were Third Division rivals Carlisle, Worthington Cup opponents Millwall, Premiership club Derby County and First Division duo West Brom and Tranmere.