Mick Byrne, the former head coach of the Fijian Drua, has voiced significant concerns over the officiating standards affecting the team during their Super Rugby matches. Throughout his three seasons with the Drua, which included two quarter-final appearances, Byrne noticed notable inconsistencies in officiating. Early in his tenure, he observed that about 80% of their tries were subjected to TMO reviews, which led to disallowed tries on multiple occasions. After some games, referees acknowledged their mistakes through apologies.
Byrne supported current head coach Glen Jackson’s recent frustrations with officiating in a match against the Brumbies, noting that despite the Drua’s reputation for having one of the strongest scrums in Super Rugby, they have not received fair treatment during critical 50-50 calls. This inconsistency from referees has necessitated that the Drua consistently showcase their set-piece strength to earn recognition and trust from match officials.
Furthermore, Byrne suggested that the Drua’s distinctive playing style might create confusion among referees who are more accustomed to traditional approaches. He underscored the need for patience, expressing hope that as the team continues to demonstrate its capabilities, referees will adjust to their style of play.
In line with the Drua’s co-captain Frank Lomani, who noted the disruptive impact of officiating decisions in their recent 21-38 loss to the Brumbies, Byrne emphasized that staying focused and enhancing performance will be crucial for the team moving forward.
As the Drua prepares for their upcoming match against the Chiefs, they are determined to harness their resilience and aim for victory. With the unwavering support of their fans, and a strong commitment to improving their performance, optimism remains high that the Drua can successfully turn their season around. The focus on mental toughness and the rise of young talent injects further hope, as the team seeks to convert their efforts into wins on the field.
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