OJO'S INSIDE LINE: Referees could do with help (From Wiltshire Times)

OJO'S INSIDE LINE: Referees could do with help

2:00pm Friday 1st February 2013 in Sport News

OUR Southern Counties South win over Wootton Bassett last weekend was quite a feisty affair and a chat with the referee’s assessor at the game got me thinking about the job of the match officials.

Referees are only human and they do need help whenever possible so I just wonder why there is not a recognised list of touch judges for levels like ours.

There have got to be people involved in rugby clubs who are neutral and who would volunteer to go on courses.

I think it’s important for the referee to be given as much help as possible. They really do need eyes in the back of the heads and I do worry that, sometimes, things can get out of hand.

I’ve seen a few spare tickets circulating for tomorrow’s Calcutta Cup clash between England and Scotland at Twickenham, which probably tells you a lot about the state of Scottish rugby at the moment.

A lot of people think an England win is a foregone conclusion after their victory over the All Blacks in the autumn.

I think Stuart Lancaster’s squad will be keeping grounded about things but in case there is any over-confidence, I can recall a situation from my playing days.

In 1993, England beat New Zealand at Twickenham and were expected to dominate the then-Five Nations in 1994.

My debut came at Twickenham against an Ireland team that few rated but we ended up losing, so it proves it can happen.

Finally, I’d like to mention my Trowbridge RFC player of the month for December, who is Dan Smith – my assistant coach.

Dan made a massive difference for us in that period, playing at number eight and lock among other positions.

•  Let Steve know your thoughts via wiltshiretimes.co.uk or ohoulihan@newswilts.co.uk