Matt Carley is not a popular man at the Aviva Stadium tonight.
18:36, 22 Nov 2025
Referee Matt Carley.(Image: Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Gary Carr)
Referee Matt Carley has come in for serious criticism from Irish fans for his performance in the first half of Ireland’s test with South Africa at the Aviva Stadium.
The English referee opted not to show a card to South African fly-half Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu for a clear high-hit on Tommy O’Brien, a hit that saw the Boks number 10 use his shoulder and connect high up on the Irish winger.
James Ryan was shown a yellow card which was soon upgraded to a red after a bunker review for a similar high-hit, with O’Brien then penalised later in the half for getting hit high in defence by a rampaging Moonie.
The referee has also been criticised by fans for his officiating at ruck times and scrums, with every decision seemingly going against Ireland.
Jack Crowley and Andrew Porter have also been shown quite harsh yellow cards considering Ireland are defending with so few men.
And Carley has also awarded a penalty try on the stroke of half-time.
Here’s how some fans reacted on social media.
“Matt Carley is completely out of his depth. Shocking display so far.”
“Oh we’re being treated to a Matt Carley special tonight aren’t we?”
“This is embarrassing by Matt Carley. No different the Ryan tackle than with the South Africa 10 a few minutes ago.
“matt Carley not having a good game. Relying far too heavily on his backups
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