Refs eager to take control

03 September 2014The scope for consulting TMOs increased last season when the power for officials to review footage of incidents of foul play and up to two phases before a try was extended to every game.

A knock-on effect of the change meant some matches lasted substantially longer than 80 minutes with the inevitable loss in momentum frustrating supporters, players and coaches.

Acting on guidance from the International Rugby Board, the Rugby Football Union body responsible for referees has responded by issuing new instructions.

"The TMO was one of the major talking points o…