GAA could learn so much from the Bundesliga

BY now, you all probably know what went down in last Monday’s Bundesliga relegation battle between Mainz and Freiburg when, with the assistance of VAR, the referee awarded Mainz a penalty five minutes after both sides had gone into the dressing-room for half-time. If nothing else, it proves that VAR has the ability to enliven any dull game at this summer’s World Cup. What struck us most about the whole amusing affair was that referee Guido Winkmann (right) fronted up and faced the media directly after the match, patiently answering a multitude of questions on his decision. Apparently, this is not unusual in Germany where referees are treated as both grown-ups and humans. As another summer of refereeing controversies looms on the horizon for the GAA, perhaps Croke Park should take a leaf out of the Bundesliga’s book and allow their referees to talk. And explain their decisions. Treat them as grown-ups. Seems to work in Germany.