Under-eights football teams have been banned from publishing the results of their league matches because the Football Association believes it puts too much pressure on youngsters.

The little-known rule, which was quietly approved by the FA Council in May, comes into effect this month and affects tens of thousands of teams throughout the country, threatening uproar among parents who believe youngsters are entitled to know how successful their team has been.

From now on, all leagues running Under-8 sections will have to keep results private. A similar ban was imposed on Under-7 teams five years ago. Under-8 teams will also be prevented from competing in knock-out tournaments where cups and medals are handed out to winners.

A spokesman for the Football Association said: "This is about creating an environment where children can learn and develop their skills while enjoying the game without the pressure of having to get a result.

"They can start taking it more seriously as they get older."

The rule has found favour with Kent County FA vice-chairman Colin Boswell who is also chief executive of the Valley Express Kent Youth League, the county's biggest competiton for youngsters.

Though the league does not accommodate an Under-8 section, he said: "I believe Sir Trevor Brooking is behind this initiative because he intimated as much when he launched the Kent County FA's football strategy in December.

"In my opinion what's behind this is the problem of parental pride which all too often sees adults, who should know better, shouting and screaming at their sons from the touchlines. Sir Trevor wants to see a return to the days when youngsters of that age could play their football without any pressure whatsover.

"After all, Under-8s have all the time in the world to win cup and medals. So, for the moment, let them enjoy their football and in doing so develop their skills without being frightened to do so."