ended the first half after 40 min (and when notified of this called everyone out for another 5mins of play).
Just to point out, this is correct thing to do, as per the laws, based on his initial mistake.
The reality is that we are very short on refs. In general the W League, Central League, and most of Cap Prem Mens get Ref + 2ARs. . Cap Premiere Mens & Womans, Cap 1-3, some Under 17s, and the top grades of 13th and 14th get referees only.
Ref'ing a game without ARs is a thankless task at the best of times. Mistakes will always been made, even by experienced refs when it comes to offside calls.