The NCA have issued a statement about the Luctonians v Rotherham match which clarifies the law with regard to when a referee can change a decision.
For those who have not been following, Rotherhan scored a try to level the scores right at the end of time. The conversion was initially signalled good, and the referee whistled to end the match, then the ARs apparently changed their mind, and the referee therefore followed suit - and the match card was submitted as a draw. After an appeal, the NCA ruled that no changes can be made after the referee signals the end of the match, so Rotherham have been awarded the win.
I note the NCA have not made any statement on the facts, this is whether the ball was over or under the bar.
So if you find yourself in the same situation as ref, make sure you get all the possible advice before you blow no-side. And if you are the Assistant, ensure Sir does not blow if you have any doubt.
For those who have not been following, Rotherhan scored a try to level the scores right at the end of time. The conversion was initially signalled good, and the referee whistled to end the match, then the ARs apparently changed their mind, and the referee therefore followed suit - and the match card was submitted as a draw. After an appeal, the NCA ruled that no changes can be made after the referee signals the end of the match, so Rotherham have been awarded the win.
I note the NCA have not made any statement on the facts, this is whether the ball was over or under the bar.
So if you find yourself in the same situation as ref, make sure you get all the possible advice before you blow no-side. And if you are the Assistant, ensure Sir does not blow if you have any doubt.
National League Rugby Statement: Luctonians v Rotherham Titans - National League Rugby
The National Two North fixture between Luctonians and Rotherham Titans - which was played on Saturday February 19th - originally ended as a 10-10 draw, but the RFU can confirm the result has now been amended to a 12-10 win in Rotherham's favour.
www.ncarugby.com