Round 14 truly delivered an unforgettable experience!
It featured one of the greatest finishes and an exhilarating second half, along with some of the worst officiating blunders you could imagine.
Off the field, discussions about Origin teams, player interactions with PVL, and viral media chatter spurred by a podcaster took center stage.
This round promises to be memorable, especially for its controversies, so let's dive into it.
Here are 20 reflections from Round 14:
1. Adam Gee, once thought by me to be the top referee, requires a break. The glaring knock-on by Ben Trbojevic that went unnoticed is simply unfathomable. Three professional officials were present, while fans pointed out the evident mistake. It raises serious doubts about their focus. Absolutely unacceptable!
2. The underlying problem is that while the bunker and everyone else saw the obvious mistake, they remain unable to intervene. After the ball leaves the ruck, it's a new play in the game. Despite the clear knock-on, the bunker can only observe in dismay. It seems absurd that we're bound by such regulations, rendering us helpless against clear errors.
3. A significant concern arises from the bunker's ability to reverse decisions for foul play from earlier plays. There are instances where referees penalize actions from two sets back while ignoring obvious mistakes in the present. The NRL truly sabotages itself!
4. The way Liam Kennedy decided that Tom Chester scored on Friday is puzzling. Regardless of Selwyn Cobbo's involvement, Chester can't lose the ball and merely fall on it for a try. His embarrassment post-decision says it all: that was never a try!