Referees back in URC spotlight as Andy Friend laments mistakes that cost Connacht

Saturday wasn’t a good night for the officials, or for the new United Rugby Championship. New name, same old competition in the sense that the standard of officiating has long been a bone of contention for players, coaches, and the general public

Munster’s John Ryan is tackled by Connacht’s in their URC clash at Thomond Park on Saturday. Picture: Billy Stickland/Inpho

Everyone knows how it works for put-upon match officials.

Walk away from a game unnoticed and you can consider it job done.