Rugby League Referees Deserve Respect Despite Criticism
The Head of Match Officials in rugby league has urged fans to remember that referees are “people behind the shirt” after a wave of criticism aimed at officials following the recent Magic Weekend.
Phil Bentham has defended his top referees, such as Chris Kendall, who was subjected to social media abuse after Leeds Rhinos’ fiery defeat to Warrington Wolves. The match saw three players sin-binned, leaving the Rhinos’ playoff hopes hanging by a thread.
Bentham revealed that the Rugby Football League (RFL) is exploring ways to offer greater online protection for referees, as leading officials like Kendall and Liam Moore have opted to be active on social media despite the abuse they often face.
“A fan came to me at the weekend and said: ‘It’s no wonder your referees get abuse with the state of some of your decisions’,” Bentham said, addressing the criticism from Magic Weekend.
Chris Kendall himself made a valid point that he has a right as a human being to be on social media, as that is how the current generation communicates. Bentham acknowledged that while he personally would not be on social media, the referees have every right to be there without being subjected to abuse.
Bentham, who is back overseeing the RFL Match Officials department after a stint with the Premier League, also dispelled claims that referees are not accountable for their mistakes. He detailed the remarkable review process each official undergoes, where they analyze their decisions minute-by-minute and provide a comprehensive account of their performance.
“They are all accountable. Every single week they are all wondering ‘am I in Super League this week or am I not?’ That level of accountability happens week-in week-out,” Bentham said.
The article highlights the need for rugby league fans to show more respect for the officials, who are simply doing their job to the best of their abilities. By understanding the rigorous review process and the human element behind the referee’s shirt, fans can contribute to a more positive and constructive dialogue around the sport.
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