The Brutal Rulebook

The referees will never win. Just scrolling through the endless sea of debate drowning social media proves that no decision is perfect. As seasons pass, fans become more disgruntled with referees, claiming their poor decisions are costing teams vital competition points. But to every "wrong decision" which drives fans away, there is a succinct argument proving the decision correct. So every year the NRL adjusts rules to minimise the grey area and bring clarity to fans - a noble quest which routinely fails.

The underlying issue is not a sub-par rule book, but that one penalty has a profound influence over the game. A dubious offside call could throw your opposition into an attacking position, or give them the lead with only minutes to go. Referees are constantly forced to make 50/50 decisions which essentially decide the outcome of the game.

The NRL cannot make the perfect referee, but they can reduce the level of impact they have. The average penalty should be worth a new set of six, advanced ten meters from where the infringement was made. Only serious infringements such as professional fouls should entitle the opposition the chance to kick for a goal.

No longer would referees be terrified of calling offside during golden point or a "soft" high tackle give your rival the lead with the siren sounding in the background. Referees would no longer dictate the game - they would just be another factor.