Manly coach Geoff Toovey says the NRL is likely to make significant changes to the obstruction rule for the 2013 season following widespread criticism and confusion this year.
Toovey launched a blistering attack on the refereeing ranks following the Sea Eagles’ loss to Canterbury last Friday night and said he had since been in touch with NRL officials, including referees’ coaches Bill Harrigan and Stuart Raper.
The pair indicated important changes would be made to the obstruction rule in consultation with players and coaches for next season.
“They have indicated, the powers that be, that they are looking forward to listening to what the players and coaches have to say,” Toovey said on Tuesday.
“Obviously, there are some rules that need to be clarified, I think, and the players and the coaches are all confused when it comes to the obstruction rule.”
Bulldogs coach Des Hasler’s use of decoy runners has become a hot topic of debate in the lead-up to the finals series.
Former Parramatta and South Sydney coach Jason Taylor has been critical of both the Bulldogs and North Queensland for what he perceived to be illegal plays, while Justin Hodges’ try in the final State of Origin game – which was awarded despite the fact he had run behind one of his own players to score – remains one of the most confusing decisions of the season.
“There has to be some change at the end of the year,” Toovey said.
“The players and the coaches need to get together and put their point of view forward.”
The dual refereeing system has also come under fire from several quarters, including former grand final referee Mick Stone who has said having two referees on the field hasn’t worked and it has hampered decision making and the development of referees.
Toovey also said the two referees system was something that needed to be reviewed.
“Although I think I saw (NRL director of football) Nathan McGuirk said the other day it wouldn’t be, it would be nice to be consulted on it,” Toovey said.