LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Calls are mounting for Newcastle Knights coach Adam O'Brien to apologize following his contentious remarks about fans after their dramatic victory over Manly.
During the match, the Knights were booed off the field at half-time while trailing 16-0.
However, they staged a remarkable comeback, winning 26-22.
Post-game, O'Brien faced criticism when he responded to the fans' booing.
"It's really disappointing," he said.
"For people to boo that, they don't know anything about rugby league.
And they're probably the ones who cheered at the end." He defended his team's performance, highlighting their effort: "The first half we defended the hearts out.
There is a really young footy team there against a very good opposition.
I thought we were excellent in the first half ...
I know people are disappointed, but they're trying their backsides off."
O'Brien's comments have sparked division within the NRL community.
Some view his defense of the players as refreshing, while others believe targeting the fans was inappropriate, especially considering the Knights' dedicated supporter base.
Andrew Voss, a prominent NRL commentator, expressed his disapproval on SEN radio, stating, "I think all fans should be allowed to have their say.
You pay your hard-earned money to watch your team, and if your team stinks up the joint on a regular basis, are you entitled to boo?" He noted that O'Brien seemed overly confident after the win, suggesting that the coach should be more mindful of fan sentiments.