LEE Radford believes it is good to talk to officials after Super League matches – even when they admit they were wrong.
The Castleford coach and other bosses hold discussions with a Rugby Football League liaison officer to question calls made in matches.
And even though that can show on-field decisions were incorrect, he is glad refs are not afraid to speak to those left most infuriated.
Radford said: “We kick ourselves in the crotch a lot as a sport but a positive is the RFL has allowed us to voice our opinion to the officials.
“Monday night was almost like a counselling session for me, knowing I’m not going senile over some decisions. To hear them give their reasoning is a massive plus.
“You send the liaison officer footage and tell them your concerns or questions. They contact you and talk you through it.
“They’ve reviewed the official’s game – a bit like a player’s review – as they want to get better, just like we do.
“An easy criticism of officials is there’s no accountability bit for that official to speak and say, ‘I gave that decision because of that’ and getting their side is great.
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“If they say, ‘Looking back, that probably wasn’t the right decision but this is why I did it,’ is no different than a performance review with a player. You can see it from their angle.
“Communication can only be a good thing for the sport at a time when officials are getting bashed. I was out of the game for two years – that communication and access just wasn’t there.”
Castleford will be without forward George Lawler for Friday’s trip to former club Hull KR after he was banned for making a shoulder charge against Warrington.
However, Radford can see why the game’s bosses have cracked down on those offences and contact with the head.
He added: “The game’s in an incredibly tough situation. The head knock scenario is around and you need insurance to play the game, so I can understand why they’re zero tolerance on it.”
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