Rugby league refs warned

By ZACHERY PER
RUGBY league referees have been warned not to wear official Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) uniforms to officiate non-sanctioned matches, says an official.
Highlands Confederate referees coordinate Peter Starky issued the warning on behalf of PNGRFL chairman Sandis Tsaka in Goroka over the weekend.
“Referees were seen using official uniforms to control rugby league matches not sanctioned by PNGRFL,” Starky said.
He said the practice must stop, as the uniforms issued should only be worn for PNGRFL sanctioned matches in the Digicel Cup and other affiliated leagues.
“Organisers of competitions like the Ipatas Cup should provide referees, touch judges and match officials with uniforms bearing their own emblems and colours,” Starky said.
“You can control these games but at least you wear uniforms not issued by PNGRFL.”
Starky warned that referees found wearing PNGRFL uniforms at non-sanctioned matches would be disciplined.
“Disciplinary measures may include dismissal from PNGRFL-sanctioned competitions like the Digicel Cup,” Starky said.
He said match officials were being monitored.
Starky said Tsaka had given him the approval to release a media statement warning referees and match officials to refrain from the practice.