Backing for referees after costly rugby gaffe

The Tasman Rugby Union and Nelson College have rallied behind leading Nelson referee Andrew Matthews after widespread online criticism following a college clash in Nelson last Thursday.

Andrew wrongly allowed a try to stand after a cunning trick play by Marlborough Boys’ College from a penalty.

Falcons star centre Anru Erasmus placed the ball on the tee in front of the Nelson College goalposts, quickly shot the referee a glance and then chipped the ball into the corner for lock Finn Neal to score.

Andrew was heard saying, on the live Sky Television Commentary, “look, it doesn’t contravene any rule I can think of, so it’s a try.”

But as former leading international referee Nigel Owens was quick to point out, it did, in fact, contravene the rule which states you must make a genuine attempt to kick at goal.

The ball should then have been handed back to the home side. The TRU referee Aadministrator Stephen Caunter insists rugby has a substantial set of laws.

“The job of the referee is to apply these the best they are able in often testing situations. With the benefit of hindsight and the chance to review the applicable law, there should have been a different decision made with respect to the kick at goal,” says Stephen.

He adds that rugby can’t be played without a referee so they are an essential component. At high school level, they are volunteers and give their time freely.
Those sentiments have been franked by Nelson College principal Richard Washington who reached out to the TRU referees’ boss, noting that particular moment in the game sparked a great deal of online discussion.

“While debate is part of sport, we want to acknowledge the people who make these opportunities possible. Sport is about more than winning, it is about building resilience, a sense of belonging and strong character in our young men.

“We are incredibly grateful to all volunteers who give their time to support school sport, including referees and officials. These are not easy roles, especially under pressure,” declares Richard.

He’s urging the wider community to show the same respect and perspective as Nelson College expects from its players.

For the record, the Miles Toyota 1st XV Premiership leaders Marlborough Boys’ College hung on to win 28-26 after a stirring second half comeback from the defending champions.

Nelson College captain Tom Perkins looked to have sealed a remarkable victory when he dived over in the corner but television replays rightly showed the final pass had been forward. It just wasn’t their day.