Tandy’s ‘surprised’ over ref decision
THE Ospreys have blasted referee Dudley Phillips despite maintaining their unbeaten record at the Liberty this season when they sent Edinburgh packing 31-22.
Phillips was ridiculed by fans after he and TMO Kevin Beggs awarded the visitors a try through Blair Kinghorn despite wing Damien Hoyland clattering Dan Evans as the full-back prepared to take a high ball.
Explaining his decision to award the touchdown, Irishman Phillips told Alun Wyn Jones: “Both players are looking at the ball and are realistically going to compete.”
BBC TV pundit Sean Holley described it as ‘one of the worst decisions I’ve ever seen’ and Ospreys coach Steve Tandy was equally unimpressed.
Asked for his thoughts on the episode, Tandy replied: “Surprised is probably putting it mildly.
“I don’t get outspoken on too much, but I think that is borderline ridiculous.
“When we saw this game lined up we knew Edinburgh wouldn’t be the only frustrating factor.
“And when you see a decision like that, it’s pretty laughable.
“I shouldn’t think I’d have to put in a report after pretty much everyone has seen what (happened).
“I’ve spoken to a few people and I’m still struggling to see anyone who’s saying that’s a try.
“That could cost us in any other game. “So it is a bit frustrating. “As coaches we have to come out after games and speak and put our hands up when performances don’t go too well.
“It will be interesting see the accountability.”
Referee Phillips incurred the wrath of Cardiff Blues fans in October for a number of strange decisions in a match against Leinster at the Arms Park.