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The ARLC have continued their crusade against consistent rule interpretation for an entire season by this week instructing all referees to refer themselves directly to the judiciary each time they make an incorrect ruling.
“This is about sending a message to referees that their mistakes will no longer be tolerated,” said an ARLC official.
“Referees know that from now on we expect them to punish themselves for their own errors.”
While the move to improve the accountability of referees by making them answerable to themselves has been welcomed in some sections, a number of finals-bound coaches have questioned the move.
“I know there is a rationale for trying to ensure referees more closely adhere to the traditionally acknowledged laws of the game,” said Melbourne Storm mentor Craig Bellamy, “but surely you can’t change the way the game is refereed at this late stage?”
Newcastle coach Wayne Bennett agreed.
“All season we have played the game according to variable and illogical refereeing – it is not really fair that we now have to expect the rules to be accurately and fairly applied. Besides, how will they know when they’ve made a mistake? Most don’t even know the rules!”
Despite being chattier than usual, Mr Bennett’s address came to a sudden end when a Newcastle administrator interrupted to remind him that his Newcastle side had, in fact, not qualified for this year’s finals series.
“Sorry,” Mr Bennett mumbled, shrugging in confused embarrassment, “force of habit.”
“I understand,” the Newcastle administrator replied, “but we have to go. Mr Tinkler is waiting to see you.”
Referees boss Bill Harrigan attempted to ease concerns by admitting that the ARLC directive was unlikely to change much.
“My referees are never wrong,” he said.
“Now hand me my hair gel!”
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