Big wide runway offers RFF the best access to the aircraft especially if its muddy and wet off the paved surfaces.
Also, there is more to the SQ story than the report indicates.
"....but I reckon you would get as much arm chair criticism, particularly if you hurt someone...."
Not by anybody who counts.
Yes people will be injured during an evacuation but this concern should never be part of the decision making when fire bells are ringing.
I have yet to hear of a captain facing charges for injuring pax during an evacuation when doubt existed.