The secondary referee in England's Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup final against France became the centre of controversy after throwing a tantrum over a decision made during the game.
England dramatically defeated France 28-24 in front of a raucous record-breaking 4,526-strong crowd in a fiery Manchester atmosphere on Friday. Skipper Tom Halliwell scored late on to secure a thrilling victory for England on a night that could prove defining for the growth of the sport.
But French defence referee Laurent Abrial became the pantomime villain of the showpiece as he was booed for his wild gesticulations as he opposed his colleague's decisions throughout the enthralling contest.
