British and Irish Lions flanker Jac Morgan executed a brutal cleanout on Wallaby Carlo Tizzano at a ruck in the lead-up to Hugo Keenan's series-winning try in Melbourne on Saturday.
On-field referee Andrea Piardi reviewed the cleanout and deemed it legal, so the try stood, breaking Australian hearts. Since, the call has been hotly debated by referees, coaches and players alike.
World Rugby has since come out in support of the officials involved in the spectacle. However, in light of their push for player welfare, the optics aren’t great.
Speaking to the press this week, Erasmus sees how the decision could have gone both ways.
"That is such a tough decision," said the two-time World Cup-winning coach.
"World Rugby has come out and said it was the right decision. I know it’s a very tough call for the referee to make there.
"I know if I were Joe [Schmidt], I would be disappointed, and if I were Andy [Farrell], I would be really happy. For me to make a call here is tough.
"I didn't go through those emotions. I think it was touch-and-go, so I can understand what both coaches see.
"But World Rugby has ruled on it and that is what everybody has to accept."
The third and final Lions Test kicks off in Sydney on Saturday.
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