When would a referee issue a caution for unsporting behavior?

A caution for unsporting behavior is typically issued when a player engages in actions that are considered to be contrary to the spirit of the game. Delaying the restart of play or demonstrating disrespectful gestures falls directly into this category, as these actions not only disrupt the flow of the game but also undermine the authority of the referee and can provoke negative reactions from other players and spectators.

Excessive celebrations could also lead to cautions, but they often depend on the context, such as whether the celebration is deemed inappropriate or excessive relative to the overall situation. Discussing the referee's calls is often a matter of communication but typically does not reach the threshold for a caution unless it involves dissent or verbal abuse. Playing aggressively without fouling, while it may be a concern for safety and fair play, does not usually warrant a caution unless it escalates into reckless behavior or unsporting actions. Thus, the focus on delaying play and disrespect highlights why that scenario necessitates a caution for unsporting behavior.