The NRL has admitted a penalty should have been awarded to the New Zealand Warriors during their 12-10 finals loss to Newcastle at Eden Park on Sunday.
Tyson Frizell appeared to escort Leka Halasima beneath a high ball late in the match, denying the Warriors a chance to level through a penalty goal.
The error is especially damaging because the NRL emailed clubs last week warning officials to punish escorting players more strictly.
Referee Ashley Klein will reportedly miss both this weekend's preliminary finals after his performance attracted criticism over several contentious calls.
The Bunker ruled that Ali Leiataua had knocked on, changing the ball's path and affecting Bradman Best's attempted catch.
Warriors players also challenged a decision involving Te Maire Martin and an alleged strip.
Warriors supporters reacted angrily, throwing cans at Klein as security escorted him from the field. The NRL is investigating the abuse and says it will take necessary action.
The club's chief executive wrote to the NRL on Monday seeking explanations for the disputed decisions.
Klein is considered one of the competition's leading referees, but his omission could jeopardise his prospects of controlling the Grand Final.