Some referees' rulings annoy me, as I wonder how they could possibly reach some decisions I've seen on the playing fields around the area.

Sometimes a ``wrong'' decision costs a team the game.

It wasn't until I saw a plea from Lindsay Gardner on our website that I realised we should just be happy that we do have people stepping on to the playing field to do such an important job.

Although Lindsay refers to soccer referees, other sports are no different when it comes to criticism of a referee's rulings.

Tempers are set to go off the Richter scale shortly when the finals series of many competitions start.

Heckling from the crowd is like water off a duck's back to experienced referees, but the danger is that not all referees are experienced and some are just learning the ropes.

It's hard to take in, but for every decision that goes against your team, there is always a decision that will favour your team as well.

Sometimes the ``wrong'' decision comes at a crucial moment in the game.

When it goes against your team, obviously it's a bitter pill to swallow, but put it down to experience and it will make you a stronger player, ready to accept the official's decision and get on with the game.

So, the next time you think about criticising a referee's decision, take a deep breath and think for a second before you hurl the abuse.

Following is the piece posted on our website by local referee Lindsay Gardner:

``Referees are only human. We can be fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunties, sons or even daughters.

``We come in all shapes and sizes. A lot of us are only kids. Some of us are as young as 12, trying to earn a little pocket money.

``Sometimes we referee games without assistants [linesmen]. Some of us are only new. We only learn by doing. Sometimes we make mistakes even experienced referees.

``Sometimes we view the play from a different angle to a coach or a spectator. Sometimes our view is obstructed. Sometimes we don't see everything. No video referees in our sport. Sometimes we look away for that split second. Sometimes we have to interpret rules that are ambiguous.

``Sometimes we get upset and take comments to heart. After all, we are only human. Please give us a fair go.''