Lions confident in referee O’Keeffe

THE British and Irish Lions are confident that referee Ben O’Keeffe will not be influenced by Rassie Erasmus’ extraordinary attack on the officials from the first Test as they aim to seal a series victory over South Africa today.

Warren Gatland’s tourists have reacted to Erasmus’ unprecedented 62-minute critique of the performance of Nic Berry at Cape Town Stadium last Saturday by launching a charm offensive.

Erasmus, the Springboks’ director of rugby, posted a video online in which he accused Berry of showing Siya Kolisi less respect than his opposite number, Lions captain Alun Wyn Jones.

The mastermind of South Africa’s 2019 World Cup triumph used 26 clips to highlight perceived mistakes and inconsistencies from Berry, who is an assistant for the potentially decisive second Test at Cape Town Stadium.

The Lions, however, have adopted a more diplomatic tone on the eve of a clash that could elevate them alongside the triumphant tours of 1974 and 1997 with fullback Stuart Hogg gushing in his praise of Kiwi O’Keeffe.

“In the short time I’ve been Scotland captain, Ben O’Keeffe has been one of the best referees I’ve had to deal with,” Hogg said.

Forwards coach Robin McBryde added his approval having met with the officiating team alongside Gatland on Thursday.

“As Ben O’Keeffe said himself, we’re aware there’s a lot of stuff out there on social media etc but that’s not going to affect anything,” McBryde said.

“That’s just a sideshow. We had a positive discussion with the referee. Everyone realises they’re in a tough place. They’ve got a tough job to do.”

World Rugby is concerned at the assault on an important principle of the game – respect for the referee – and has demanded an explanation from SA Rugby.

Australia rugby chiefs have also hit out at Erasmus’ “unacceptable” 62-minute rant against Berry.