Does the referee need to show the red card when punches are thrown in a game of rugby league? YES, YES, YES, YES, YES! I can't be any clearer.
Thuggery
It was fascinating to listen to the Warrington legend of the 1970s, Mike Nicholas, when he appeared recently on Super League Super Stars. Just to remind those who may not be aware, Mike was sent off about as often as Martin Offiah scored tries. However he was adamant that the game is much better now that it has cleaned up the sport. He admitted that it was thuggery in the past and sadly that's what some players had to do to survive.
The introduction of video cameras at games throughout the '80s was primarily the reason why the game was able to end the violent play that existed. Every one of the 'hard men' of the '60s and '70s that I've ever met has said that they much prefer the game now. It's cleaner but much harder and far better to watch in their view. They claim that the sport is faster and much more skilful, it's not about fighting and it never should be.
In fact, Mike said that he wouldn't have wanted his son to play in the days when someone was stretchered off and another one was sent off in almost every game! He is happy to promote the sport to any youngster now.
I like to watch a hard game of rugby but know that punching is not acceptable in society, and nor should it be on a rugby field. The sport has many occasions when a player can show how tough he is, either when he runs with the ball or makes a tackle. We aren't trying to compete with boxing or MMA.
Those who want to 'Bring Back the Biff' have a mistaken memory of the game 40 years ago. The aim of the game is to put the ball over the try line not to knock your opponents head over the sideline.
I am also a believer that sport has an important role to play in society, and it would be difficult to explain to young people that fighting isn't allowed if it were condoned on the field of play. I understand and appreciate that each incident needs to be viewed carefully by the referee.
The aggressor needs to be treated more severely than a player who could claim that he was trying to defend himself. However, rugby league like to think of itself as a sport of great discipline; let's maintain it.
