URC chief Tappe Henning threatens crackdown

United Rugby Championship head of match officials Tappe Henning has warned that the league may have to adopt a "zero-tolerance" approach towards players appealing for decisions if the trend continues to worsen.

Speaking during a URC media briefing, the former Test match referee said that officials are growing increasingly frustrated by players calling out to appeal for offsides and dangerous tackles and warned that stricter measures could be brought in to stamp it out.

While he admitted that emotional reactions on the field of play were understandable, Henning added that players must respect the referee and a crackdown on poor behaviour will have to take place unless attitudes begin to change.

“It is becoming excessive,” the 64-year-old said. “We do not want to go into a zero-tolerance approach, but if it does not improve we will get to a point where we apply zero tolerance.

“The referee will try to manage it early in the game and request the captain to take control of his players. What we definitely do not want is four or five players surrounding the referee.”

“We understand disappointment and frustration from players, but if the referee draws the line in the sand, we expect players to respect that," he added.