Erasmus Accepts Lions Try Decision Amid Australian Discontent

South Africa’s head coach, Rassie Erasmus, has stated that the controversial decision to award a series-winning try to the British & Irish Lions during their match against Australia should be accepted. The Lions secured a dramatic 29-26 victory last weekend with a last-minute try from Hugo Keenan, but the Australian side disputes a ruling made by referee Andrea Piardi regarding a ruck just before the score.

Following the match, Australian coach Joe Schmidt described the call as an error, expressing concern over a clear-out by Jac Morgan on Carlo Tizzano, which he deemed dangerous. Phil Waugh, the chief executive of Rugby Australia, echoed these sentiments, stating he would seek “accountability” from World Rugby regarding the officiating decision.

Erasmus, who faced a two-month ban from World Rugby in 2021 for his criticism of referee Nic Berry, acknowledged the complexity of the situation. “I had Australia winning by four points in the game, so I lost our internal coach’s competition on that one,” he remarked with a smile in a press conference on Tuesday. “It’s such a tough decision. World Rugby has come out to say it was the right decision. It was a very tough call for the referee to make.”

The South African coach expressed empathy for both sides involved, noting, “If I was Joe, I would be really disappointed, and if I was (Lions coach) Andy Farrell, I would be really happy. I think it was touch-and-go, so I can understand both sides of what each coach sees.” He emphasized that the ruling from World Rugby must be accepted moving forward.

Earlier, Alan Gilpin, the chief executive of World Rugby, supported Piardi’s decision. “We do share with Joe and the coaching team why the match officials made that decision,” he stated. He acknowledged Schmidt’s concerns and noted that ongoing discussions would ensure that the Australian team understands how the next test will be officiated.

Looking ahead, South Africa is set to host Australia for two tests in the Rugby Championship. These matches will take place in Johannesburg and Cape Town next month. Notably, Piardi will also officiate the Springboks’ final match in the Rugby Championship against Argentina in London in October 2023.

As both teams prepare for these critical fixtures, the focus remains on ensuring clarity and consistency in officiating, an essential aspect for maintaining the integrity of the sport.