Frustrated: Brian Smith
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London Irish director of rugby Brian Smith has called for a referee report system to be introduced after Chris Hala'ufia was sent off on Saturday.
Hala'ufia was shown a straight red card after just 10 minutes against London Welsh in the Aviva Premiership clash, with Irish ultimately going down 15-9 away from home.
The incident was viewed as harsh by both sets of players and supporters, with Smith calling for a review system similar to the one used in Rugby League to help referees on crucial decisions.
"I just think we could learn a lot from rugby league," Smith told BBC Radio Berkshire.
"We disagree with the referee's calls, but that's footie. For me it was a perfect tackle. There was nothing Chris could have done about it and we think it is perfectly executed tackle.
"In rugby league if there is a tackle that there is some concern about they just put the incident on report and then they look at it in the cold light of day and they make an accurate decision.
"You don't often get 12 guys playing against 13 in rugby league unless it's a very obvious red card.
"This just illustrates how behind the times we are in terms of the laws of the game.
"If that tackle was put on report, Chris probably gets a commendation for tackle of the season. But that's not the case and we've paid the price," added Smith.
"I think it makes common sense to bring in something like the report system. It works perfectly well in the other code and we shouldn't be too proud to look at it. "
Comments
APV1 says...
Looked at the tackle on a well-known video site. It looked ferocious, but not illegal.
I think extending the TMO remit is the way forward. But, as 1st58 suggests, it could be some time...
Posted 11:39 04th December 2012
1st58 says...
Very sensible, and obvious step forward....which is prob why the RFU will drag their feet!
Posted 22:57 03rd December 2012
Timbeddow says...
An outstanding and ferocious tackle perfectly executed in a warrior collision sport.
Anything to help the referee get it right should be welcomed these
Are game and career changing decisions which are deciding games
The process must be quick and efficient as there are to many breathers in the game . And to many tactical disciplinary delays off the field
Posted 18:26 03rd December 2012