LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
NRL fans and commentators are voicing concerns regarding Angus Crichton's actions during the Roosters' match against the Dragons on Anzac Day, where he attacked Lachlan Ilias's face.
Despite a previous penalty two weeks ago for a similar incident involving Adam Reynolds, Crichton faced no punishment this time for his actions.
In the recent play, while standing in the tackle, Crichton raised his arm and deliberately struck Ilias's face with his free hand multiple times before bringing him to the ground.
After taking Ilias down, he pressed his elbow and forearm into the smaller halfback's head and throat, appearing to assert dominance over him.
The referee, however, penalized Ilias for a ruck infringement instead, granting a set restart to the Roosters, which sparked outrage among viewers who believed Crichton should have been penalized instead.
According to the rules, players can use their hands to fend off tacklers but must not raise their forearms or elbows in attempts to fend.
Critics argue that Crichton's actions clearly violated this guideline, raising questions about the consistency of officiating in the NRL and the accountability of players for aggressive behavior on the field.