– This article originally appeared on Stuff and is reproduced with permission
Frustrated Hurricanes captain Ardie Savea has put the standard of refereeing in Super Rugby Pacific firmly in the spotlight following a 24-21 loss to the Crusaders on Saturday.
In the last lineout of the game with the Hurricanes just five metres from the Crusaders’ line, Savea appeared to be played in the air by Crusaders captain Scott Barrett – an infringement that should have resulted in a penalty.
However, referee Brendon Pickerill let play continue and eventually ruled the ball unplayable before blowing the final whistle.
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That sparked wild celebrations among the Crusaders players, but Savea and Jordie Barrett were clearly incensed, and Savea issued some carefully chosen words in his post-match interview with Sky.
“I’ve got to take a breath mate. I’m lost for words,” he said.
“I’ve seen some calls that go the other way but unfortunately it didn’t happen tonight.
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“Mate, I’m speechless at the moment, pretty heartbroken.
“We came out here and we wanted to prove a point. The Crusaders, they’re the best team in this competition and I’m proud of my boys’ efforts.
“They just missed out in the end. As a leader I like to put pressure on, and demand from the officials and making sure they’re doing everything they can to get these calls right.
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“At the end of the day, it can come to either or, and we get an apology the next week but it’s too late.
“Without saying anything disrespectful, I’d just love to have the officials demand better.”
The criticism means New Zealand Rugby referees boss Bryce Lawrence may have work to do next week, as Savea’s criticism is certain to generate a discussion about officiating in general.
The incident happened at the end of the pulsating match in the capital on Saturday, and there will also be debate about the Hurricanes’ decision to kick to touch when trailing 24-21, as a successful penalty would have sent the game into extra time.
Barrett would have been at short odds to land the three points, but having rolled the dice the Hurricanes will certainly feel that Pickerill needed to be on the lookout for a Crusaders infringement.
The loss leaves the Hurricanes in either place on the ladder, with two wins and 11 competition points. They play the Highlanders in Dunedin next Saturday.
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