Celtic Rugby has announced that, in conjunction with its live broadcast partners and the host Unions, from the start of the coming season Television Match Officials (TMOs) will be appointed at all televised Magners League games to assist in situations where the referee is unsure of a score.
The Magners League has three live television broadcast partners: BBC Wales, S4C and Setanta Sports, who between them show around 70% of each season's matches. When called upon the TMO will follow the International Rugby Board Protocol, which is already in use at international matches, to advise the referee on whether or not points have been scored.
In a further move aimed at improving on field disciplinary matters, and to take the onus off participating teams, Celtic Rugby has also announced it is introducing Independent Citing Commissioners to officiate at all Magners League matches.
David Jordan, Celtic Rugby director commented: "we are always endeavouring to raise standards and to organise the Tournament and matches to have a consistency with other professional rugby competitions. The changes being introduced are designed to improve the decision making and disciplinary processes in Magners League games."
