VIDEO: Nigel Owens' verdict on officials in Ireland's win over Boks
WATCH as retired refereeing legend Nigel Owens unpacks some hotly debated talking points during the second Test between South Africa and Ireland.
Speaking on World Rugby’s Whistle Watch, Owens puts the spotlight on Caelan Doris and James Ryan’s clear-out on Malcolm Marx during Ireland’s 25-24 win over the Springboks in Durban.
He also talks about the final play involving Cheslin Kolbe leading up to Ciaran Frawley’s winning drop goal.
The Irish captain Doris was yellow-carded for the croc-roll on Marx in the second half of the encounter.
The incident was spotted by Television Match Officials Ian Tempest, who alerted referee Karl Dickson of the foul play.
Doris’ actions were reviewed by the Foul Play Review Bunker (TMO Bunker), who deemed that the ‘dynamics of the second player’ namely Ryan, meant that the Irish No.8’s yellow card was not upgraded to a red.
However, after the match, many felt that both players should have been issued yellow cards, while some believed that it warranted a red card.
After the match, Rassie Erasmus confirmed that Marx sustained an injury from the incident.
Sharing his thoughts, Owens stated that the Irish duo were “very lucky” not to face harsher punishment.
“James Ryan can count himself fortunate as well because another day, another official, another team may well have viewed that he played a huge part as well and could well have sent him to the bunker too,” said Owens.
“The other question you’re asking is whether Caelan Doris’ yellow card should be upgraded to red.
“To be honest with you, it’s a very, very tough decision, and I don’t think there could have been any arguments if it would have been upgraded to a red card because the action is dangerous. That’s why the croc-roll has been outlawed.
“So, Doris, on this occasion, can count himself very, very lucky because it could well have been a red card.”
In terms of the final play leading up to Frawley’s winning drop goal, many would argue that Doris leaned to the left and obstructed the onrushing Kolbe, preventing him from charging down Frawley’s drop goal attempt.
Owens revealed that he agreed with the match officials in this case.
“There were no clear obstruction for the Irish player. He doesn’t step into him or take him out.
“It’s a case of Kolbe slipping.”
Source: World Rugby
