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NRL chief executive David Gallop last night reprimanded the game's premier player Andrew Johns, who was sprung yelling the expletive "c..." on Fox Sports last Sunday.
Gallop ... not impressed. /File
But the Rugby League Professionals Association last night claimed television broadcasters use on-field microphones "at their peril". About 300,000 viewers heard Johns' outburst during Newcastle's emotion-charged loss to Melbourne at EnergyAustralia Stadium.
Johns' language was audible but Fox Sports had lowered the volume levels.
After a Storm try which sealed victory, Johns exploded at referee Paul Simpkins.
"No! This can't be happening. It's a big game. We've worked our c...s out, both teams, only for it to turn on a s... decision like that ... it's a game for men," Johns said.
Johns' rage came after Knights winger Anthony Quinn was penalised for abusing touch judge Russell Turner.
Debate raged yesterday as to whether Johns was at fault for using such blue language or whether players should be permitted to swear on the field in high-pressure rugby league.
Asked was he disappointed in Johns, Gallop said: "I'm sure Joey would accept that if he had his time again, he would have chosen a different approach."
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Gallop said Johns and other players must refrain from swearing when approaching the referee, the time when on-field microphones are turned up by broadcasters.
"Players must remember they are setting an example to many kids who see them as heroes and may be tempted to copy them," Gallop said.
"Players need to be conscious of on-field microphones.
"We will continue to monitor the use of these microphones but they can enhance many fans' enjoyment of the coverage. From time to time, emotional outbursts are bound to occur. But swearing is regrettable and can't be taken back after the event."
Fox Sports said on-field microphones were part of rugby league.
"We've had on-field microphones for 10 years now," said a Fox Sports spokesman.
One NRL coach said players should be left alone when on the field, claiming: "It's a man game."
NRL referees coach's assistant Bill Harrigan said Johns should have been reprimanded on the field for swearing.
"In the best interests of the game, swearing is frowned upon and we can't condone it," Harrigan said.
"We don't want kids and families in their living rooms putting up with foul language.
"Whether it is said in the heat of the battle or not, players should know they shouldn't swear, particularly when they know it can be picked up the microphones."
RLPA chief executive Matthew Rodwell said players can be excused for using such language during intense matches.
"In the heat of the battle when emotions are high and players are desperate, ugly things are going to be said," Rodwell said.
"Microphones can be used but TV channels do so at their peril.
"Players don't want to go out and swear and berate officials, but there are times when it is difficult to curb emotions out there.
"Expletives can be part and parcel of the game.
"When you are exhausted out there, you don't tend to watch Ps and Qs. The players aren't really aware about microphones."
Leading rugby league broadcaster Ray Hadley - whose 2GB often use the on-field microphone - said: "We all do things we regret under pressure and Joey is under immense pressure each week."
The Daily Telegraph
But the Rugby League Professionals Association last night claimed television broadcasters use on-field microphones "at their peril". About 300,000 viewers heard Johns' outburst during Newcastle's emotion-charged loss to Melbourne at EnergyAustralia Stadium.
Johns' language was audible but Fox Sports had lowered the volume levels.
After a Storm try which sealed victory, Johns exploded at referee Paul Simpkins.
"No! This can't be happening. It's a big game. We've worked our c...s out, both teams, only for it to turn on a s... decision like that ... it's a game for men," Johns said.
Johns' rage came after Knights winger Anthony Quinn was penalised for abusing touch judge Russell Turner.
Debate raged yesterday as to whether Johns was at fault for using such blue language or whether players should be permitted to swear on the field in high-pressure rugby league.
Asked was he disappointed in Johns, Gallop said: "I'm sure Joey would accept that if he had his time again, he would have chosen a different approach."
Advertisement:
Gallop said Johns and other players must refrain from swearing when approaching the referee, the time when on-field microphones are turned up by broadcasters.
"Players must remember they are setting an example to many kids who see them as heroes and may be tempted to copy them," Gallop said.
"Players need to be conscious of on-field microphones.
"We will continue to monitor the use of these microphones but they can enhance many fans' enjoyment of the coverage. From time to time, emotional outbursts are bound to occur. But swearing is regrettable and can't be taken back after the event."
Fox Sports said on-field microphones were part of rugby league.
"We've had on-field microphones for 10 years now," said a Fox Sports spokesman.
One NRL coach said players should be left alone when on the field, claiming: "It's a man game."
NRL referees coach's assistant Bill Harrigan said Johns should have been reprimanded on the field for swearing.
"In the best interests of the game, swearing is frowned upon and we can't condone it," Harrigan said.
"We don't want kids and families in their living rooms putting up with foul language.
"Whether it is said in the heat of the battle or not, players should know they shouldn't swear, particularly when they know it can be picked up the microphones."
RLPA chief executive Matthew Rodwell said players can be excused for using such language during intense matches.
"In the heat of the battle when emotions are high and players are desperate, ugly things are going to be said," Rodwell said.
"Microphones can be used but TV channels do so at their peril.
"Players don't want to go out and swear and berate officials, but there are times when it is difficult to curb emotions out there.
"Expletives can be part and parcel of the game.
"When you are exhausted out there, you don't tend to watch Ps and Qs. The players aren't really aware about microphones."
Leading rugby league broadcaster Ray Hadley - whose 2GB often use the on-field microphone - said: "We all do things we regret under pressure and Joey is under immense pressure each week."
The Daily Telegraph
