Referee Apologises

Blunder referee apologises to Wales rugby team
Sun Mar 11, 8:22 AM ET

The referee, whose misinformation cost Wales the chance to snatch a Six Nations draw against Italy, apologised on Sunday for his mistake.

Italy won the match 23-20 in Rome to record two victories in a Six Nations campaign for the first time in their history.

However, the match ended in controversy when the full-time whistle blew just after Wales had declined an opportunity to kick what could have been a score-levelling penalty.

Instead they went for touch, hoping to win the game from there, but referee Chris White ended the match before play could resume.

"I would like to apologise for the misunderstanding that occurred as the Italy v Wales Six Nations game drew to a close on Saturday," White said in a statement sent to AFP on Sunday.

"I have apologised to the Wales coaching and playing staff for the misunderstanding. I would like to thank them for the good grace with which my apology was accepted."

After the game the Welsh were furious and frustrated.

"We were quite clearly told we had time to play," said coach Gareth Jenkins.

"We asked the referee how long was left and he said 10 seconds and we told him we were kicking to touch. He said OK," added winger Shane Williams.

"You can tell by our faces that we are gutted, but we can't complain - that's rugby, Italy played really well."



I've seen and heard it all now!

GB