LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Melbourne Storm's head coach, Craig Bellamy, has suggested that Penrith Panthers' Ivan Cleary should formally request a rule change from the NRL if he feels strongly about the recent penalty try issue. The two coaches have presented opposing views on the matter ahead of their clubs' meeting this Thursday in the Round 24 opener.
This match is crucial for both teams, with significant implications for the top-four standings; Penrith aims to distance themselves from the New Zealand Warriors to enhance their chances for a finals rematch.
Playing in Melbourne poses challenges for the Panthers, but Cleary is particularly concerned about the rising number of penalty tries awarded for players tackled in the air. The latest incident involved Tyrell Sloan, who was penalized for interfering with Cronulla's Teig Wilton during a scoring attempt-a decision that drew criticism from supporters of both teams.
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