Rugby League Referee Liam Moore Shares Candid Insights on the Highs and Lows of the Job
In a revealing interview with State of Mind Sport, experienced Super League referee Liam Moore has provided a candid look into the realities of being an official in the top-flight of rugby league. Since making his Super League debut in 2017, Moore has become one of the most respected and prominent referees in the competition, taking charge of prestigious playoff games and finals.
Moore acknowledged that the role of a referee is not without its challenges, including having to deal with negative public scrutiny and abuse from fans. “Referees are human as well. They’re not emotionless creatures who go out on a field. Everyone has their feelings and has their doubts sometimes,” he explained.
The 27-year-old revealed that he used to actively seek out criticism on social media, but has since learned to distance himself from such feedback, recognizing its lack of constructive value. “When my career was flying and I was doing live TV and that kind of stuff, I’d go in the pub after I’d come off air and I’d go through my Twitter and read every single comment that was sent to me. I look back and I don’t know why I did it because no one goes online to say well done, they just go on online to have a pop.”
Moore also spoke candidly about the ebbs and flows of his own form, acknowledging that referees, like players, can experience periods of good and bad performances. Recalling a particularly challenging spell in 2019, he said, “It was at that point where I was put on big games and I got decisions wrong, and that knocks your confidence at that point.”
However, the official emphasized the importance of having a strong support network, including his wife, friends, and fellow referees, such as his brother Aaron, who is also part of the Super League roster. “The talking for me is absolutely critical,” he stressed.
Despite the challenges, Moore remains dedicated to his craft, with his career highlights including officiating two Challenge Cup Finals and two Grand Finals. This weekend, he will be on video referee duties for the clash between St Helens and Hull FC, while also taking charge of the Warrington Wolves vs. Leigh Leopards match.
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