Robinson wants NRL action over diving

Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson has called on the NRL to stamp out diving, saying video referees should not be used to determine penalties on the field.

Earlier this week, South Sydney’s Glenn Stewart admitted to taking a dive to draw an obstruction ruling and deny North Queensland a try on Monday night.

Robinson has been an outspoken critic about the rise of diving in the game and claims it’ll continue as long as players know they can get away with hoodwinking on-field officials via video referral.

“I think my views have been very clear about the philosophy of diving and players have said that it’s OK to dive apparently,” Robinson said.

“I don’t think the video refs should be included in that decision. The refs are there to adjudicate on fouls and should do that.

“If they miss it, then don’t encourage lying down to get a penalty. That is just not our game.

“It’s what separates us from other sports. The hierarchy need to clamp down on it and say ‘we understand it’s a loophole in our system so let’s get rid of it’.

“If it’s a bad shot or infringement, then it will get suspended.

“There is more suspensions than ever; the match review committee have been firm on clearing up the game so let them do that. Don’t let the video ref be the Match Review Committee.”

Robinson was furious at a number of penalties awarded against his side after Brisbane players appeared to stay down after being tackled in last week’s golden-point loss at Suncorp Stadium.

He maintained he would take action against any of his players who tried to milk penalties and said even if went in their favour, he would never tell a player to take a dive.

“Our players don’t, they haven’t for two-and-a-half years and it’s cost us at times,” he said.

“But at the moment, the NRL are asking us a moral question about whether we’re going down that line or not and, at the moment, we are not choosing to.

“I am proud of our players for doing that. But I don’t think it should be up to the players.

“The easiest way to get rid of it is to not go up to video refs. Leave it up to the on-field ref and move on.”

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