LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In a stunning revelation, Penrith Panthers fullback Dylan Edwards has bravely stepped forward amidst the NRL storm swirling around the controversial obstruction rule.
The talented player admitted to still feeling a bit lost when it comes to understanding the much-debated rule after finding himself in the midst of contentious scenes during the Panthers' clash with the Roosters.
The Roosters were left reeling after a try was disallowed by the Bunker due to an obstruction call involving Edwards and Jared Waerea-Hargreaves.
Despite Waerea-Hargreaves being well beyond the Panthers' defensive line, the try was nullified as Edwards collided with him while trying to thwart the Roosters' attacking play, ultimately leading to Joey Manu's overturned four-pointer.
NRL's head honcho Graham Annesley later admitted the Bunker's blunder and urged officials to use their common sense when making such crucial calls.
While the NRL has set guidelines to identify obstructions, referees still have the leeway to judge the impact of any contact on a potential try-scoring play.
Annesley defended the officials' right to interpret the rule, arguing it prevents players from exploiting the system with dramatic falls and acting antics.
However, Edwards voiced his disagreement, fearing that leaving the obstruction rule open to personal discretion could create more uncertainty for players on the field.