Only a week ago the Welsh official was confirming his status as the top ref in the world at Twickenham in front of a packed house and global audience as defending champions New Zealand crushed Australia hopes in the Rugby World Cup final.
Fast forward a week and the 44-year-old Owens was again in total charge as the home team delighted their fans with a 28-18 victory in what was a bigger crowd than ususal
“Normally 150 people or so turn up to watch the boys but everyone has come down to see Nigel referee,” said Gowerton’s club chairman Stephen Howell.
“It was a great idea to bring Nigel down to the grass roots,” he added.
Welsh match officials manager Nigel Whitehouse said: “Allowing figures like Nigel to take time to give something back to grassroots rugby is something we hope will continue to get young people interested in rugby.
“What we want is to continue to build and maintain the strong relationships that are in place between the international set-up and our clubs.
“And if anything it’s just a great opportunity for Nigel to be back in the heart of grassroots rugby among friends and family who appreciate all that he has done over the years.”
