Wayne Bennett, the coach of South Sydney, has directed criticism at the match officials regarding a significant error during the play the ball that contributed to a pivotal try for Manly.
This error allowed Manly to secure a 28-14 victory, celebrating Kieran Foran's new three-year coaching contract.
At 10-8, the match was closely contested when Manly's substitute fullback Clayton Faulalo broke through for a try immediately after dealing with a low-grade hamstring strain, which is not expected to keep him off the field for long.
However, video replays revealed that edge forward Ben Trbojevic had mishandled the ball while attempting to play it, with the Steeden seemingly adhering to his hand.
Referee Adam Gee failed to notice the infraction, and the bunker was unable to intervene.
"He didn't play the ball properly, did he? It's as simple as that, they pay all this money for the bunker and we still don't get it right," Bennett remarked.
"We weren't playing well, so I'm not going to use that as an excuse. But the bottom line is that's what they're there for.