Chris Ashton of the Leicester Tigers made history in the Premiership rugby league as he became the first player to score 100 tries in the competition. Ashton achieved this milestone during a thrilling game that saw the Tigers dominate the 14-man Exeter Chiefs with a resounding 62-12 win at Welford Road.
However, the game took a controversial turn in the second half when Exeter’s Olly Woodburn received two yellow cards in quick succession and was eventually shown a red card, leaving his team with only 14 players on the field.
The second yellow card, in particular, has caused a stir online, as Woodburn was penalized for what appeared to be a routine last-ditch tackle.
Referee Karl Dickson adjudged Woodburn to have dived on Ashton on the ground in an unnecessary incident that prevented Ashton from scoring, resulting in a penalty try being awarded to the Tigers. This decision left Exeter Chiefs with a numerical disadvantage and further fueled the Tigers’ dominant performance.
The controversial call prompted reactions from players, with winger Jack Nowell taking to social media to express his shock, stating, “I’m actually in shock, like shock shocked. What the hell is happening? That’s one of the worst decisions I’ve ever seen. EVER.”
Fellow England international Henry Slade also commented, saying, “I have no words. Mental.”
Former international referee Nigel Owens attempted to provide an explanation for the decision, stating, “Forget for a minute whether you think it’s a penalty try or not. But once the referee decides it is a penalty try, then the player responsible has to be shown a yellow card under the law.”
However, when pressed further about why the referee awarded a penalty try, Owens expressed his personal opinion, saying, “Personally, if we penalize this, then players will dive on the ground from 5m out, slide over knowing that it’s virtually impossible to defend it. He doesn’t dive on him, so for me, I’d play on. But I’m not sure if the refs have had a directive on it mind.”
The incident has ignited a debate about the interpretation of the rules and the use of penalty tries in rugby. Some argue that the decision was too harsh, while others believe it was justified based on the laws of the game.
The controversy highlights the challenges faced by referees in making split-second decisions in high-pressure situations and the subjectivity that can arise in interpreting the rules.
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”