The Roar
The Roar

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In defence of the TMO

Roar Rookie
23rd August, 2018
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Craig Joubert has re-emerged, with fate seeing him officiate Scotland in his first game back since the World Cup. (Source: AFP, Martin Bureau)
Roar Rookie
23rd August, 2018
6

There has been a huge outcry over the involvement of the TMO’s usage. I disagree. In fact, I have no problem with the TMO intervening if they have seen any dirty foul play.

For pieces of foul play like biting, eye gouging, a punch or kick in the ruck, stomping and testicle grabs. They are incredibly difficult for the referee and two touch judges to spot. Only the TMO would find them clear and obvious. Then that player would rightly be rubbed out of the game with a red card.

Or, take for example Johnny Fa’auli’s shoulder charge to Wes Goosen’s head. He was correctly red carded.

The ref and touch judges were not entirely sure what happened, but the TMO correctly advised on the shoulder charge to the head with no mitigating circumstances.

With concussions a big issue, there is a need to make the game safer. So, to all the people complaining “the game’s gone soft”, be thankful that there is a move to reduce concussions.

The TMO powers have played a role I believe in stamping out foul play, reduce ‘thugby’ and help see more enterprising rugby.

Who knows, if the TMO wasn’t allowed to rule on foul play, players like Beauden Barrett could be targeted more?

So in saying that, I am pleased that the TMO is allowed to rule on foul play. Players need to learn to adapt and play more within the spirit of the game.

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