I agree with JM, a simple "he didn't beat the ball to the bag" or "I have him out" will suffice.
The "there is no tie" is in reference to how to rule on the play. It's not a "rookie" thing. I challenge anyone to find the rule that states that "the tie goes to the runner." You won't, because there "are no ties." Rules state clearly that a runner is out if he, or the bag, is tagged prior to him reaching the base. If they "tie," the base was not tagged prior to him reaching it(or he didn't reach the base PRIOR to it being tagged - depending on if you want the out or not)
We just have to rule - out/safe - period based on what we saw as I stated originally.
Skarecrow, please squash the "tie goes to the runner" myth!!