"Question 2: what should I have done"
To your partner, quietly: "F1 did not clear the rubber, I have a balk and it's standing".
To Coach fans and players loudly and confidently: "F1 did not clear the rubber, that's a balk, you X base and return to your position".
IMO, even a "big dog" wouldn't or at least shouldn't, carry on after your "clear and confident" ruling.
And of course, an intimate discussion with your "big dog" after the game would be in order, as well as a follow up with your UIC or assignor..
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SLAS
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