Klein's Warriors Blunder Changes Finals Role

Adam Gee.

Adam Gee will referee Friday's preliminary final between the Dolphins and Sydney Roosters at Suncorp Stadium, with Ashley Klein appointed as the bunker official.

Klein was removed from on-field duties after the Warriors' 12-10 semi-final defeat against Newcastle at Eden Park.

The NRL confirmed on Monday that he failed to penalise Knights forward Tyson Frizell for an escort during the closing stages.

Had the infringement been called, the Warriors would have had a straightforward penalty attempt to force golden point.

Klein was targeted with projectiles while leaving the field, prompting condemnation from NRL chief Peter V'landys and the referees' union Professional Rugby League Match Officials.

The 47-year-old had been a leading candidate for this year's grand final appointment before the error.

He has officiated more than 700 matches across Tests, the NRL, State of Origin and Super League.

Klein will support Gee, who refereed the Roosters' semi-final victory over Cronulla and appears to be competing with him for the grand final role.

Gerard Sutton will control Sunday's other preliminary final between Penrith and Newcastle.

Sutton last refereed a grand final in 2021, while Gee was the middle official for the 2023 decider.

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