The NRL has clarified that Parramatta's ability to kick a penalty goal after the golden-point field goal was entirely within the rules, emphasizing the need for punishment in cases of foul play.
The Eels' thrilling 33-30 victory against North Queensland was marked as the first instance of a three-point golden victory in NRL history, leaving both fans and players bewildered.
Following Mitch Moses' successful 33-metre field goal to secure the win in Townsville, Cowboys fullback Scott Drinkwater was penalized for illegal contact against the Eels' half.
Typically, once a game concludes in golden point, full-time is called and no conversion attempts are made for a try.
However, referee Liam Kennedy allowed the Eels a penalty shot from a prime position, which enabled Parramatta to extend their lead by three points.
The NRL confirmed on Saturday that this ruling was correct, as full-time is not officially called until the bunker reviews all play related to the field goal.
Graham Annesley, NRL's head of football, underscored that the Eels were never at risk of losing the game from the penalty, since full-time would have been declared had Ronald Volkman missed the shot.
"The penalty after the field goal was the correct decision," Annesley stated.
"The fouled team is entitled to the additional penalty given there had been an act of foul play."