LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Matildas fans have expressed their frustration with the focus on Nathan Cleary during Wednesday night's game against Chinese Taipei.
The Penrith Panthers star was seen cheering on his girlfriend, Mary Fowler, from the stands.
The couple recently made their relationship public, leading to speculation about their dating status.
Cleary and Fowler were even spotted sharing a cuddle in Perth before the game.
During the game, Fowler scored a stunning long-range goal in the 62nd minute, which caused the crowd to erupt in excitement.
However, instead of highlighting Fowler's incredible goal, broadcasters immediately switched their attention to Cleary in the stands.
This move left many viewers feeling upset and disappointed, as they believed it was disrespectful to Fowler.
Social media platforms were flooded with comments criticizing the excessive attention given to Cleary.
One person went as far as to request Channel 10 to focus on Fowler's goal rather than Cleary.
Many fans felt that Fowler deserved all the screen time for her remarkable achievement.
Despite the backlash, Cleary seemed to be enjoying himself at the game, flashing a smile whenever Fowler made a significant play.
Other spectators even took the opportunity to take photos with Cleary throughout the match.
The incident has sparked a larger conversation about the representation and recognition of female athletes in comparison to their male counterparts.
Many believe that Fowler's goal should have been the main focus, highlighting the need for more equal coverage and attention in women's sports.
As the backlash continues, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by women in sports and the importance of providing them with the recognition they deserve.