Advertisement
Owens has officiated at both the 2007 and 2011 Rugby World Cups, and is also set to feature in the 2015 competition. Photosport/Andrew Cornaga/INPHO

Rugby referee Nigel Owens has some interesting thoughts on officiating in soccer

The Welshman says there is a big difference between the way players are dealt with in the two sports.

RUGBY REFEREE NIGEL Owens says there is a big difference between taking charge of games in his sport and soccer, and claims he would “love” to officiate the latter.

Owens, who is set to feature at the upcoming Rugby World Cup, claims the behaviour of soccer coaches in particular is unacceptable.

“If you had coaches in rugby having a go at referees like Jose Mourinho and some others do, they’d be dealt with more firmly,” he told the Radio Times.

Asked how he’d handle football players, Owens added: “I’m afraid they’d be down to five-a-side before half-time.”

Owens previously officiated at the 2007 and 2011 Rugby World Cups, while he has also taken charge of three Heineken Cup finals.

Chelsea ban banter as they bid to curb poor early season form – reports>

Carragher and Neville brilliantly dissect the United-Liverpool game>

Close
55 Comments
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.