Look, in this case the only thing we are sure of is that there was *not* zero seconds on the clock at the whistle. How is it you are saying the only thing we can do is the only thing we are certain is not true?

The part that reads "The referee may correct an obvious mistake by the timer to start or stop the clock properly only when he/she has definite information relative to the time involved."

I have definite information that the clock was not stopped correctly. I have definite information that it should not read 0:00. At this point you use your judgement, along with information from your partners (and possibly the table) to determine the correct amount to put back on.

You keep quoting the second part of the rule -- but that is a supplementary sentence. Saying that the "The exact time observed by the official may be placed on the clock." does not preclude the officials from getting together and putting some time on the clock when they know (i.e. "definite knowledge") that some time was left when the whistle blew.

Remember the spirit of the rule here is to correct an obvious timing mistake. If you want to say, "Sorry, coach, I do know that the clock didn't stop, but I didn't see exactly at the point at which it should have, so I can't put anything on." then, yeah, we are going to have to agree to disagree... because that is horrendous.

Then how are you <b>sure</b> of the amount of time that you're planning on putting back on the clock? Do you just know it too?

Definite knowledge == I know that it definitely is not zero. I know that it is definitely below 1.0 seconds. Use information from your partners and the table along with a healthy dose of common sense to get the play right and put back time on the clock.

What if there are 3 seconds left and you blow your whistle, but don't look at the clock. Then after a few more seconds the horn blows and you look up at 0:00??? Are you going to end the game then since you don't know the exact time to put up???