LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Professional Rugby League Match Officials have urged the NRL to publicly disclose the review regarding comments made by Shane Richardson, CEO of Wests Tigers.
Richardson made these statements following a close loss to the Penrith Panthers on June 8, when the Tigers fell short with a score of 18-14, a match that drew significant critique from fans concerning officiating decisions.
In the official Wests Tigers podcast, Behind The Roar, Richardson discussed the scrutiny on refereeing, stating, "I thought there were some pretty ordinary refereeing decisions [in the Panthers game] that certainly had an effect on us." He further remarked, "I've learned over the years, though, that refereeing decisions never really go your way when you're battling up the ladder." This marks Richardson's first full season as CEO after joining the club midway through 2024.
The referees association's call for transparency follows the rising concerns around officiating in rugby league, particularly emphasized by Richardson's comments.