All parties were left with a bitter taste after a controversial red card marred the Chiefs 26-16 win over the Blues on Saturday night. The spotlight was supposed to be on the Chiefs securing a home semi-final, and the departing Ali Williams, Anthony Boric and Rene Ranger in Blues colours for the last time. Instead flanker Kane Barrett was the victim. Referee Chris Pollock the culprit, who almost single handily ruined what promised to be a grand spectacle. At least that’s the way most saw it. Even Chiefs captain Craig Clarke, whose head was ruled to be in danger from Barrett’s right boot was bewildered by the decision. “My shoulder,” Clarke replied when asked to confirm whether his head had been struck by his Taranaki team-mate. “I just felt a little bit on my shoulder. “Personally I feel a little bit for the man. I guess if that was a club game in Taranaki you wouldn’t look twice at that sort of thing.” While Chiefs coach Dave Rennie labelled it as ‘harsh’ his opposite, Sir John Kirwan, was prepared to delve a little deeper into the issue but chose his words carefully. Just two months ago his assistant Sir Graham Henry landed in hot water with Super Rugby’s governing body Sanzar for slamming match officials. Kirwan suggested Sanzar referees boss Lyndon Bray adopt a system similar to the one used in the NRL where a referee can be suspended for poor performance. “I just challenge Lyndon Bray to start doing what we do – being dropped from selection next week because we didn’t play well or losing your job because you can’t coach well,” said Kirwan. “All I’m saying is please take a leaf out of the book of the NRL so we can at least challenge this stuff.” With the win, the Chiefs moved three points clear atop the overall Super Rugby table – where they remain after the second-placed Bulls were beaten 30-13 by the Stormers on Sunday morning (NZT). They will spend the next fortnight resting before hosting a semi-final against the Crusaders or the Cheetahs. Before that fixture, Rennie has plenty to think about. After a poor showing against the Crusaders last week his defending champions were less than convincing despite possessing a huge advantage. All Blacks first-five Aaron Cruden is certainly one who will want to make a statement during the playoffs after missing all four of his conversion attempts. Meanwhile, Kirwan said he was extremely proud of his young squad and the heart they have shown throughout the season.
Article source: http://www.express.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/412954/Lions-Leigh-Halfpenny-is-toast-of-the-tourists
Kirwan, Rennie lament "harsh" decision
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