World body backs Melbourne match refs

World Rugby chief Alan Gilpin has backed the match officials involved in last weekend's second Test between Australia and the British and Irish Lions and said it was disappointing the governing body’s commitment to player welfare had been questioned.

- 

The Lions won the Test and clinched the series with a try from Hugo Keenan in the final seconds but the Wallabies were upset about a ruling from referee Andrea Piardi over a clear-out at a ruck immediately beforehand.

Australia coach Joe Schmidt said the decision not to penalise Lions flanker Jac Morgan for high contact was an error and Rugby Australia chief executive Phil Waugh said he would be seeking “accountability” from World Rugby over it.

“Given the nature of the commentary surrounding last weekend, we just want to express our support for the team of match officials involved,” Gilpin told reporters at the launch of the ticketing programme for the 2027 World Cup yesterday.