If ever an argument was needed for not having Video Refs, todays Semi was it.



The most gutless reffing performance I have ever seen since Video refs were introduced.



Absolutely shocking for most of those decisions to go to the video.



A couple yes were understadable, but others shocking.

How long has going to the video ref for scrum decisions been allowed.



It needs stopping now, it could set a worrying precedent. Video refs take too long as it is. We don't need them umming and aahing over even more calls.

Is it any different for using the video ref to see whether to restart a game with a goal-line drop out or a tap on the 20?

Not really, but as I said, it could start a worrying trend. What would be next? Checking every dropped ball to see if it's a knock on, or a ball steal?



I can just about live with drop outs and such, the balls in the try-scoring area, but his choice to use video evidence today was a new one.

I was more worried at the fact that he could see some of the decisions clearly, yet still did not have the balls to give the decision himself.



I am all for using the technology when it is doubtfull, but when clear make the decision and get on with the game.



Best example was the Leon Pryce not try at end of first half. It was clear as day he never got the ball down. The ref was in the best position to see, and looking right at it. The players gave the game away by their body language that it was never a try, they never expected anything different.



Yet he went to the video.



Then he topped it off further by as clear a double movement as you are going to see just seconds later, and again he went to the video for clarification.

I ewas convinced the double movement one was going to be given. I recall Bradfod being given one in similar circumstances at the Meal Anyone Weekend.





Not that I have any axes to grind over reffing decisions at said weekends, they are normally spot on.

That was hape!!!

Cummings out until then nothing will change.

ref by video is the way its going now, usually they dont maje it as obvious as today though, the ref will pretend to consult the touchjudges while the replays are watched and hes told in his ear what to do



the scrum decision shows poor officials, he didnt see it, the tj didnt see it, so he went to the video

For me the Eastmond try was very simple, from first glance on tv he looked held up, there was no need to go to the screen, however what angle did the ref see it from? If he couldnt see it clear he has every right to go to the screen

Some good points regarding the use of the VR to decide on scrums and drop outs. This is something that is creeping into the game more and more. Have i missed a change in the rules allowing the referee to consult on these type of incidents? I only thought they were allowed to be consulted for try scoring opportunties and 40-20's.