Lucky Sithole
The Rugby Championship match between Australia and New Zealand is about 30 minutes old. Fullback Jordie Barrett, a great New Zealand player, goes up to catch an up-and-under and takes the ball cleanly. But as he rises at least a metre above the ground, his foot comes up and strikes (now is your moment to flinch) the fast approaching Australian wing, Marika Koroibete with the studs full in the face.
A truly horrible moment.
As Koroibete falls to the ground, Jordie Barrett goes over to him and pats him on the shoulder, presumably saying something like ‘sorry, mate’.
How dreadful. Ugly to see. Two highly respected players in a freak accident. The commentators agree that it’s an accident, but dangerous nonetheless, and suggest that it will definitely be a penalty and possibly even a yellow card.
But, no. This is when the real villain of the piece jumps into the spotlight. Referee Damon Murphy does that pompous thing that referees do when they are offended: blows that loud blast on his whistle, stiffens his back and whips out that atomic bomb of sports – the red card.
Jordie Barrett can’t believe it, Koroibete can’t believe it, nobody watching the match around the world can believe it – but as everybody is repeatedly told, the ref is always right.
If Damon Murphy, known as a good referee, officiates at another thousand matches, he will always be remembered for this one unbelievably, shamefully, bad decision.
Strength to your arm, Rassie Erasmus. You’ve called out the rugby royalty and questioned the handling of matches both on and off the field. Damon Murphy’s handling of this freak accident may just add some serious grist to your mill.
Image source: @FoxSports
