Hi Dan, this is an interesting question .
As you noted , the crl is specific in the rear tab of the shoulder bridges and isn't for the front one but, to my understanding , if the rear tab is optional, is implicit that the front one isn't .
The crl aditionally states :
Text descriptions are only one part of the guideline. GMLs and costumers must consider both text and pictures (CRL and Reference) when reviewing the costume.
We have a lot of reference images that clearly shows a large tab in the front and most of the time none in the rear.
At the end of the day is completely up to you the Basic Approval, for higher levels EIB and Centurion this would be a blocker and the applicant would need to change the piece.