The recent development of 'Teflon Bulldog' as the new Cam Smith offers a surprising answer to Manly's challenges - Crawls.
Notably, Bulldogs captain Stephen Crichton seems to have an extraordinary ability to attract favorable 50/50 calls.
For quite some time, fans have humorously labeled him a "protected species" or the "Teflon Bulldog."
Even when his team falters, Crichton manages to secure controversial calls in his favor time and again.
This was evident once more during the Bulldogs' unexpected defeat to Newcastle on the weekend, where Crichton benefitted from more puzzling calls.
Newcastle's coach Justin Holbrook might justifiably consider reaching out to the NRL referees' boss for clarification on whether Crichton adheres to the same regulations as his fellow players.