In a crucial moment that put Melbourne on the edge of playoff contention, skipper Harry Grant has raised significant concerns about the direction of the NRL.
Following a tense match against the Sharks, which culminated in a last-minute win for Melbourne, Grant questioned whether the sport is transitioning towards "rugby league or touch footy."
Despite the dramatic finish, the match was dominated by penalties, with a staggering 24 infringements disrupting play.
This frustrating flow was reminiscent of a game eight years prior, where 33 penalties were called, significantly impacting the pace and enjoyment of the match.
Grant noted, "I think everyone in the game is getting quite frustrated with it, I know I am," highlighting the players' unease with an increase in set restarts.
The match saw 18 penalties alone in the first half, leading to skirmishes on the field and prompting broader discussions among players.
He expressed confusion about what constitutes a quick or slow play-the-ball, stating, "We're playing rugby league, we're not playing touch out there."
Grant emphasized that this shift towards a slower, more penalized game is resulting in excessive reports and penalties. The rise in stoppages disrupts the natural pace of play, raising questions about the overall integrity and enjoyment of the sport.