LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has taken a swipe at the match officials for failing to bin Mat Feagai after his late hit on Daine Laurie, which saw the Penrith fullback sidelined for the rest of the game.
The incident occurred in the 20th-minute, leading to Laurie being taken off after being diagnosed with a Category One HIA.
Cleary expressed his frustration at the missed call, stating, "It was a bit of a confusing one that one it seemed like it was fairly obvious and there was something wrong there." The Dragons fullback Feagai was also ruled out due to showing Category Two HIA symptoms, adding to Cleary's frustration as he lost a crucial interchange and access to his 18th-man.
Despite the Panthers' dominant 46-10 victory over the Dragons, Cleary made it clear that the missed sin bin was a missed opportunity.
"Both would have been granted had the Dragons No.1 been sent from the field for foul play," he lamented.
Cleary's criticism highlights the importance of fair play and proper enforcement of the rules in the game of Rugby League.
In a sport where every decision can make or break a game, Cleary's frustration shows that even the smallest missed call can have significant consequences.