Rugby referees are fortunate as they have more authority. I've seen many a player 'sin binned' for a minor indiscretion simply because the indiscipline of his team was getting on the referee's nerves. I like this approach, as it is a team game.
I think if we had the 'collective responsibility'...
Owens is a very well appointed referee, and rightly so.
Some of his quips are legendary, but his story is fascinating too. I think he did the right thing in 'coming out', because the positive reaction will make players in his situation feel more comfortable.