Romain Poite has come in for strong criticism after his refereeing performance in the game between South Africa and Argentina
French referee, Romain Poite, has for some time been a controversial referee, with supporters often left mystified by some of his decisions. His performance yesterday proved to be no different, with many South African supporters left aghast by some of his calls.
Although it must be stated that Argentina deserved to beat South Africa, Poite had a massive influence on the game. His decision to allow Argentina take a quick penalty, despite a number of medics being on the field, enabled Juan Imhoff complete his hat-trick, angering Springbok fans.
Supporters were infuriated further by Poite’s decision to disallow Cobus Reinach’s try in the 74th minute. While Reinach grounded the ball successfully, Poite judged that the scrum half did not take the penalty from the correct position.
Although much of the blame for Imhoff’s try lies with the South African defence, Poite made the wrong call. For Reinach’s effort, Poite was correct, but at that stage many Springbok supporters were frustrated by the referee.
In fact some took to Twitter to voice their disapproval.
Firstly, Imhoff’s 3rd try where he scored in the corner. How Romain Poite can call time on when 4 medical personnel where on is baffling
— jamie fenton (@jamie189227) August 9, 2015
Despite the @Springboks WOEFUL performance, how on earth does @SanzarTRC & @IRBTotalRugby keep the incompetent Romain Poite on its panel.SMH
— SaffaZimbo (@SaffaZimbo) August 9, 2015
Final one: it’s hard to see Romain Poite not embarrassing his World Rugby bosses at the World Cup. They have time to act.
— Jean Smyth (@JeanSmyth) August 8, 2015
How is Romain Poite still an international referee. At best an attention seeker, at worst a very poor ref #SAvARG#Springboks
— Brian Whelan (@bwdettori) August 8, 2015
Tell us what you think.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOquc5_OnQg
Alan Drumm, Pundit Arena
Read More About: argentina rugby, Cobus Reinach, Juan Imhoff, los pumas, romain poite, south africa rugby, springboks
