Consistency even exist anymore?
It would’ve been fascinating to witness the moment NRL head of football Graham Annesley explained to Des Hasler why Corey Waddell wasn’t sin-binned for that high shot on Tyran Wishart late in the game against Melbourne.
You have to wonder—does consistency even exist anymore?
Interferes with the integrity of what the game’s about
“Interferes with the integrity of what the game’s about” was a statement made by Titans coach, Des Hasler. While Hasler holds the position of head coach for the Titans, I find it questionable that he believes dangerous plays should be accepted as part of the game.
The NRL is reportedly considering whether to fine him for these comments. Given that one of the NRL’s key priorities right now is reducing head and brain injuries, it’s understandable that they would review this statement to determine if it warrants a fine, regardless of Hasler’s true intent.
Additionally, it would be worth revisiting the discussion on Channel Nine’s Sunday Footy Show, where rugby league legends Andrew Johns, Billy Slater, and Brad Fittler harshly criticized the crackdown. Particularly, Andrew Johns’ level of frustration was eye-catching.
Calls for Consistency in High Shot Penalties
Personally, considering the punishments handed to Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and Ray Stone for their tackles on Saturday, I believe Corey Waddell’s high shot on Tyran Wishart should also have been penalized. It seemed worse than the tackles from Hudson Young and Reece Robson earlier in the round. Many people are likely questioning whether Robson’s tackle was really dangerous and if Young’s sin binning was truly warranted.
The NRL can’t afford to ignore the frustration of players and fans.
While it’s true that player safety should be the top priority, the Waddell high shot incident clearly shows there’s no consistency in that approach.
A Critical Miss by the Touch Judge
I hate to be harsh, but there was a moment when the touch judge, who had a front-row seat to Latrell Mitchell’s brilliant pass, seemed to have eyes only for decoration. He completely missed that the pass went forward. Mitchell threw the pass from the 10-meter line, and the winger caught the ball three meters ahead. Anyone can see it clearly in the replay.
Imagine if that pass had been the game-deciding play in a grand final. Or if it had been a Roosters player throwing that pass and a try was awarded. How could the touch judge possibly miss such a blatant forward pass?!
I’ve been saying for years that the Bunker should be used to rule on forward passes in potential try-scoring situations.
As much as we can’t expect on-field officials to get every call perfect, it’s hard to understand why we’re not using the great technology available to us.
Super Rugby Try Awarded Despite Crowd’s Frustration
I’m also glad to say it’s not just league referees who are struggling, but rugby union as well. I watched the Reds play the Chiefs in Super Rugby over the weekend, and the TMO awarded a try to the Reds.
After a messy first spell, a Lukhan Salakaia-Loto lineout steal, had Filipo Daugunu kicking high, with McKenzie unable to collect, the ball bouncing past Emoni Narawa, and flanker Joe Brial showing a whole heap of pace in toeing through and dashing 40 metres to dive in, for a try which the crowd vented their frustration at after the replays, but which the officials awarded thanks to his torso grounding.
Terrible decision.
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