Not sure if I agree with the "only half the people half the time" concept about officials, Keep. I guess that just depends on the attitude and character of the observers. I've come out on the losing end of matches where still thought the officials did a great job of keeping the game under control and calling fairly. On the other hand, I've come out on the winning side where I still felt like I had to beat the other team AND the calls to get there. I'm happy to say I haven't had those feelings lately.
People need to realize (and many do; they're just not the vocal ones) that the officials aren't there to help either team win or lose the match. They are there to ensure the safety of the players and to make sure everyone gets a fair shake, and if they accomplish those things, people should respect them for a job well done no matter which side of the scoreboard they fall on. That concept of "The refs are good as long as we win" is about as shallow as it gets.
