In a dramatic elimination final at Allianz Stadium, Newcastle Knights triumphed over the South Sydney Rabbitohs with a score of 20-10, effectively ending the Rabbitohs' season.
The Knights showcased a formidable defense, anchored by standout performances from Jermaine McEwen and Dane Gagai, leaving the Rabbitohs struggling to find their rhythm.
During a pivotal moment in the second half, a crucial play sparked heated debate among fans. Latrell Mitchell executed a stunning one-handed flick pass to Alex Johnson, setting the stage for Jayden Sullivan to score, leveling the game at 10-all.
However, as Mitchell prepared to take the conversion, referee Ashley Klein stopped play, and the bunker overturned the try due to a loose carry knock-on by Johnston, contradicting Klein's original decision to call a strip against McEwen.
Wayne Bennett, the Rabbitohs' coach, expressed his displeasure with the bunker's intervention after the match. He stated, "The quicker they get rid of the bunker, the happier I'll be." He criticized the reliability of the bunker, saying it should be "100 percent bulletproof, and it's not." Bennett further questioned the authority in officiating, asking, "I want to know who's refereeing the game... is it the bunker or is it the referee?"
Adding to South Sydney's frustrations, McEwen scored his second try shortly after, extending the Knights' lead. A debatable try from Dom Young, potentially involving a sideline touch, further sealed the Rabbitohs' fate. A late try by Jye Gray brought the score to 20-10, but it was not enough.
The Knights now look ahead to face the loser of the qualifying final between the Warriors and Dolphins in the next round.