RUGBY fans praised the “best referee comment ever” after a female official’s brilliant quip got instant respect from players in an U20 Six Nations match.
The incident occurred during England’s 28-7 win over Wales on Sunday.
Fans loved a referee’s comments to rugby players in the U20 Six NationsBBC Sport
Aimee Barrett-Theron commanded instant respect from the captainsBBC Sport
Supporters flocked to The Rec as the young Red Rose team cruised to victory in the second game of their Six Nations campaign.
And they were particularly blown away by one impressive moment involving rugby referee Aimee Barrett-Theron.
The no-nonsense official attempted to keep the game flowing despite some heavy tackles and occasional scuffles.
But as the tempo became more and more disrupted, she pulled England and Wales’ captains aside before delivering her thoughts in brilliant fashion.
Barrett-Theron said: “You know what, boys? I’m not mad, I’m just really disappointed.
“Because you both gave me buy in before the game in the changing room that you’d be able to control your players.
“So did you lie to me? Or is it something you can fix from now?”
One captain said “we’ll talk to them”, while the other replied “we’ll fix it.”
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Barrett-Theron ended the talk by adding: “Thank you, speak to both your teams, thank you.”
Fans were certainly loving her distinct style of officiating.
One said: “Best ref comment ever.”
Another declared: “What a boss.”
One noted: “That’s why I love rugby, respect.”
Another added: “A lot of referees in a lot of sports could learn from her.”
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