'Unconscious bias': Samoa coach criticizes referees after painful England defeat

Samoa were on the verge of a deserved victory over England. Photo: Gonzalo Fuentes/Reuters

Seilala Mapusua, Samoa's head coach, said referees were still guilty of «unconscious bias» against so-called «second-tier» countries after his team lost by 18 to England -17 in Lille.

Mapusua answered the question about counting penalties in the game. , which resulted in Samoa being penalized 14 times and England nine.

Referee Andrew Brace also showed Toomua Manu a yellow card in the 66th minute. While the Samoan center was serving 10 minutes in the penalty area, England scored the goal that ultimately won the game.

Asked if his players needed to work harder to adapt to the elite referees' interpretation, Mapusua said it appeared that many of his charges were already familiar with these officials.

“The guys in the blue jerseys play in the same tournaments as the guys in the white jerseys,” said Mapusua, who has been overseeing Samoa since 2020. “Maybe the judges need more time with the judges. Do referees experience unconscious bias when second-tier teams play first-tier teams? A lot of the guys are teammates.

“I think there is [unconscious bias]. I believe this has happened in the past. I don't think it's anyone's fault; This is what I've been seeing in our game for I don't know how many years; since I've been playing.»

Michael Alaalatoa, Samoa's captain and tough prop, agreed with this sentiment.

«I agree with what the coach says,» the Leinster front rower said. “From what I've seen across the Pacific, you need to make the most of every opportunity to get results. If you don't, it will cost you dearly. I'd say yes.»

Mapusua rue two major collapses as Samoa led 14-8 just before half-time, first when defender Duncan Paiaaua's goal was called back after play. after an England clearance and then when Nigel Ah Wong was forced into contact.

“If we can get those goals in the first half, if we get those two [chances], it will be a very different game. playing in terms of energy and dynamism,” Mapusua said, hinting that Samoa are not too concerned about the opposition's attack.

“Not scoring goals gives England energy and momentum. They were able to work hard and get the points they needed.

“Losing a player in the bin didn't help because we didn't feel as threatened on our line when they were throwing everything at us. »