Nigel Owens has been at the receiving end of a great deal of criticism after the Pro 12 final.
After taking charge of the World Cup and European Rugby Champions Cup finals earlier this season, Remarkably, the Pro 12 decider was the third decider Nigel Owens officiated this season.
Indeed, such is Owens’ standing in the game, few would would question his appointment at show piece events.
Nevertheless, in the aftermath of the Pro 12 final, fans questioned many of Owens’ decisions, and some even accused him of favouring Connacht.
Owens’ judgement could rightfully be called into question, after he allowed play continue after Tiernan O’Halloran fell to the ground following a blow to the head.
The Connacht player lay on the ground for a number of minutes, while play continued around him and did not stop until Sean Cronin crossed for Leinster only try of the game.
The second incident that drew ire from fans, saw Owens rule out a Leinster try, after the Welsh whistle blower judged Johnny Sexton to have thrown a forward pass in the build up.
Although replays were inconclusive, Owens should really have consulted the TMO before calling for a scrum.
Connacht fully deserved the win but that was one of Nigel Owens worst games in a long time.. #pro12final
— James O’Donoghue (@jamesod1991) May 28, 2016
Typically I’m on team @Nigelrefowens however today there were a few too many crucial errors in judgement #pro12final
— Bec (@DevilBearBec) May 28, 2016
Congrats @Nigelrefowens on the game today! You must be delighted with the result! Enjoy the celebrations with your team??
— Luke Correll (@LukeCorrell) May 28, 2016
Would have been a different match if Nigel Owens hadn’t of made the wrong call about the Sexton to Kirchner pass
— Lorraine (@Dragon_Turd) May 28, 2016
@Nigelrefowens sadly you bought into the hype of the winning underdog today, completely biased refereeing today. V disappointing!!
— niall (@ocniall) May 28, 2016
Nigel Owens having an absolute mare of a game, so many poor and unexplainable calls. Fair play Connaught, deserved title.
— john middleton (@blueboys21) May 28, 2016
Connacht deserve to win but my goodness they’ve been given a huge helping hand from Nigel Owens and team #pro12final#CONvLEIN
— Sarah Lennon (@sarahlennon08) May 28, 2016
Alan Drumm, Pundit Arena
Heineken Rugby Club celebrates and rewards real supporters who make the game what it is.
Heineken Rugby Club – where rugby meets the world.
Read More About: connacht, Johnny Sexton, Leinster, nigel owens, Pro 12, pro 12 final, Tiernan O'Halloran
