De Villiers and refs speak 'openly'
Thu, 28 Aug 2008 22:46
The Springbok coaching staff, including head coach Peter de Villiers, had a "productive" meeting with International Rugby Board (IRB) Referees' Manager Paddy O'Brien in Johannesburg on Thursday.
This follows reports of unhappiness in the Bok camp about a number of refereeing decisions which have gone against the Boks in this year's Tri-Nations series - particularly at the breakdown.
O'Brien took exception to reports which quoted De Villiers as saying that "referees are being wrapped in cotton wool" and a meeting was set up.
South Africa had requested the meeting to discuss issues relating to interpretations and procedures and the management of the current laws by match officials.
"We are glad we had the chance to meet," Andy Marinos, South Africa's Manager of National teams, said in a statement after The "clear the air" get-together.
"The meeting was held in a good spirit and we spoke openly about the issues."
O'Brien also expressed his satisfaction at the outcome of the discussions.
"It was good to meet and discuss areas of concern and going forward we are now much clearer from both sides," the referees' boss said.
Both parties agreed that there will be no further comment on the matter.
