Top rugby referee sent brutal axe verdict after bizarre red card incident and wild accusation

A top former referee has called for Mike Adamson to be dropped after an incident involving an obscene accusation

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Former Irish rugby referee chief Owen Doyle has launched a scathing attack on Mike Adamson over his handling of a controversial incident during Connacht's clash with the Bulls in the United Rugby Championship.

A particular flashpoint involving Jan-Hendrik Wessels and Josh Murphy sparked major controversy after allegations of testicle grabbing, with Doyle even calling for Adamson to be axed from officiating following the incident. In his Irish Times column, Doyle slated Adamson for failing to consistently meet the required standards of professional refereeing.

The incident that triggered Doyle's criticism unfolded in the 18th minute, as Murphy and Wessels became tangled at the breakdown. When they hit the deck, Murphy struck out twice, causing referee Adamson, who was positioned right in front of the action, to sound his whistle.

Murphy immediately appealed to the official and appeared furious, claiming that Wessels had grabbed his testicles. "He grabbed me here," said Murphy, pointing to his groin area. "Sir, look at it back, he grabbed me here, I wouldn't have done it otherwise."

Adamson replied: "I understand what you've said, I will check that but listen, what you did is unacceptable."

Even after consulting with TMO Hollie Davidson, the video evidence failed to conclusively prove the alleged incident. Adamson subsequently handed Murphy a 20-minute red card, whilst Wessels stayed on the pitch. Watch the footage below.

In his column, Doyle expressed confusion over the decision to issue a 20-minute red card to Murphy. "Testicle grabbing must be a straight red card without replacement but the camera angles failed to confirm what Murphy had said," he wrote.

"Of course, no blame attaches to the officials for the lack of intel but I have to take issue with what happened next."

Doyle was referring to Adamson's interaction with TMO Davidson, which, in his view, highlighted subpar refereeing from Adamson.

"The TMO called Murphy's action accurately: 'I'm not seeing a high degree of danger.' The referee repeated that and also added that it met the yellow card threshold," he continued.

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"Given the context, just a penalty would have been a fair call. But disbelief followed as Adamson handed Murphy a 20-minute red card. Where that colour came from is a mystery – the referee got his wires completely crossed."

Doyle said Adamson has "been around the block many times" and Murphy's actions were "clearly" a reaction to something and "testicle grabbing must be a straight red card".

The former referee added that, in his opinion, Wessels was fortunate to still be on the pitch, having escaped a penalty for a lunge on Josh Ioane after he scored a try. He also pointed out other incidents which reinforced his personal belief that Adamson is currently not up to scratch.

Speaking candidly, Doyle stated: "At the same time, it must be clear as day to everyone that Adamson's race is run. While there aren't many, there are a few young referees champing at the bit for opportunities which are not available by persisting with him."