James Hook feels referee Wayne Barnes made a mistake in disallowing his penalty kick in Wales' World Cup defeat to South Africa.
Wales full-back aggrieved over decision not to award penalty
James Hook feels referee Wayne Barnes made a mistake in disallowing his penalty kick in Wales' heart-breaking World Cup defeat to South Africa.
In the 14th minute of the contest, the Wales full-back went for goal after a South African infringement but saw his attempt ruled out by English official Barnes following consultation with his two touch judges.
The ball appeared to pass over the top of the post although Hook was adamant the kick was good.
It would go on to prove a contentious call as Wales came up just short of a famous victory with South Africa clinching a 17-16 triumph.
Hook feels Barnes got the decision wrong and should have checked with the video official.
"I thought it had gone over which is why I ran back," explained the full-back.
Hindsight
"I complained when it wasn't given but maybe in hindsight I should have asked him to check with the TV official."
Hook had support from an unexpected quarter, with his South African counterpart Frans Steyn admitting that he thought the kick had crossed between the uprights.
Wales coach Warren Gatland explained: "It was interesting in the tunnel at half-time because I was talking to the coaches about the kick and Frans Steyn walked past and said he thought it had gone over."
Gatland agreed Barnes should have consulted Australian video referee Matt Goddard rather than rely on his on-field assistants George Clancy from Ireland and New Zealand's Vinny Munro.
"They have the technology there," he said.
However, the Wales supremo refused to blame the officials for the loss, adding: "That penalty was ultimately costly, but we also missed a drop-goal in front of the posts and James missed a penalty as well."
