Rugby referee Nigel Owens blasts 'behaviour' of football players
Tuesday 15 September 2015 09:45, UK
Leading rugby union referee Nigel Owens has criticised the behaviour of football players and managers, claiming they are treated too leniently.
The Welshman, among a 12-strong panel of referees for the forthcoming Rugby World Cup, admits he would relish the chance to officiate at the top level of football.
Speaking about the 11-man game, Owens said: "I'd love to give refereeing football a go. I'm afraid they'd be down to five-a-side before half-time. It's unacceptable behaviour.
"If you had coaches in rugby having a go at referees like Jose Mourinho and some others do, they'd be dealt with more firmly."
The 44-year-old Owens, who will be officiating at his third World Cup, makes his tournament entrance at this Saturday's match between Tonga and Georgia at Kingsholm Stadium in Gloucester.
