Social media reacts to controversial refereeing performance

Josh McAllister
Laurent Abrial

Social media has reacted to the controversial performance by Wheelchair World Cup final official Laurent Abrial. 

The French official ruled a no try for Jack Brown’s first effort in the final at Manchester Central. He was later seen making bizarre actions to the record crowd of 4,526.

The official was not a fan favourite following full-time either, with an echo of boos heard inside the arena during the winning ceremony.

The English finished 28-24 winners against France, with Brown going on to score a double. Captain Tom Halliwell led the way with two tries and picked up the man-of-the-match award.

England Men’s international John Bateman led the tweets, sharing: “What’s this touch judge up to?”

Rugby league commentator Matt Horton shared: “This French official should never be allowed near an international game again.”

 

Former Super League referee Richard Silverwood also shared his views of the officiating by Abrial.

He tweeted: “This French official is unbelievable.”

Other fans have called for the referee to be disciplined after his performance on the big stage. One fan shared: “That french official should be banned. Disgraceful attitude”

Refereeing performance

Abrial was seen disagreeing with his officials on multiple occasions, including this one tweeted by the BBC.

A bizarre performance indeed.

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