To celebrate the birthday of Nigel Owens, we have put together a selection of the Welsh referee's best moments. Owens turned 44 today.
I Don't Want To Make A Big Issue Out Of This
After an on-field scuffle broke out from a line-out during a clash between Leinster and Scarlets brought play to a halt. Owens declared that he didn't want to make a big deal out of it before calling in every single player involved to have a word with them.
This Is Not Soccer
Owens sees fit to remind Treviso scrum-half Tobie Botes what sport he plays for a living during the Italians' game against Munster.
It is perhaps becoming clear at this stage that Nigel has a low opinion of some of the soccer antics.
Referee Turned Guidance Counsellor
In another life, he could have been a career guidance counsellor.
In this clip, the Welshman gives the forwards some advice. If they don't like doing their job, they should change position. Sound advice from Mr. Owens.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCVzqcuLgkw
How's The Coverage Out There?
Fans were perplexed during Munster's match against Glasgow when Owens made a mobile phone call, during the match. It was later explained that the communications system between the referee and the TMO were down forcing them to improvise. Nonetheless, the confusion in the stands and amongst the viewers at home made this a very humorous moment.
This Is Definitely Not Soccer
Another instance where Owens was forced to remind a player that he is in fact, not playing a soccer match.
Christopher
The title of the fabled 'worst episode of the Sopranos and also the only word Nigel Owens deployed to get Chris Robshaw to cool his jets and stop annoying him.
As we remarked at the time, 'mothers and teachers. Generally they're only figures who use a person's full first name followed by a stern look. Nigel Owens can now be added to that exclusive list.'
