Video ref's powers diminished

The National Rugby League has moved to diminish the power of the video referee with on-field officials told not to reverse general play decisions unless foul play is involved.

Referees coach Robert Finch says he wants to take away the safety net provided by the video referee following a rise in the number of decisions being overruled by the third official. Finch is concerned that players are looking to slow the game down to wait for a replay, hoping that the vision produces a different result.

Finch says he has received support from the majority of coaches and referees on the issue.