News

De Villiers and O`Brien clear the air

Friday 29th August 2008

Clearing the air: De Villiers had his chance to raise his conerns

After a long line of criticisms directed at match officials the South African coaching staff have met with the International Rugby Board's Referees' Manage Paddy O'Brien.

The South Africa coaching staff requested the meeting to discuss issues relating to interpretations and procedures and the management of the current laws by match officials.

The meeting, which took place on Thursday, was welcomed by both parties and deemed a success.

"We are glad we had the chance to meet," said Andy Marinos, South Africa's Manager of national teams.

"The meeting was held in a good spirit and we spoke openly about the issues."

O'Brien, who had criticised Peter de Villiers and Victor Matfield following the pair's comments last week, was also happy to have had the meeting.

"It was good to meet and discuss areas of concern and going forward we are now much clearer from both sides," O'Brien said.

Both parties agreed that there will be no further comment on the matter.