19 May 2009

NRL video ref stood down

5:15 pm on 19 May 2009

National Rugby League video referee Steve Clark has been stood down following his howling error which cost the Bulldogs two competition points last Friday night.

Clark has admitted he made a mistake in denying centre Jamal Idris' last minute try due to an obstruction - the error leaving St George Illawarra 20-18 winners.

The experienced official was axed from officiating in any NRL matches this weekend by referee's boss Robert Finch, with no indication given of when he would be back in the replay box.

Clark says that "after reviewing the incident fully there's no question I made the wrong call".

Clark says he has to be accountable for his actions and he will continue to work hard to win back his place.

Former grand final whistleblower Paul Simpkins will now be the video referee for both the Wests Tigers-Brisbane match on Friday night as well as Sunday's game between Manly and the Gold Coast.