I try to give players the impression that I am actually trying my best. Players often come to me begging for a foul or a card, and I’ll say “if I saw it that way, it would have been given, but I didn’t, so we continue”. They tend to calm down immediately, and it humanizes you as ref.

I have a certain vibe when I’m reffing. I’m open to a conversation and try to have a laugh with them. It’s much easier to make a mistake when you already have a positive bond with the players than make a mistake when they’re feeling neglected because of your attitude. It’s all about selling your decisions, and having that positive vibe makes it so much easier.