LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
NRL Defends Bunker Decision to Deny Brian Kelly Try
Titans supporters might want to avoid rewatching Graham Annesley's latest update, where he gave his take on Brian Kelly's controversial disallowed try.
The NRL head of football has come out swinging against claims that the Titans were robbed of a win at Magic Round due to a crucial Bunker decision, standing by the officials' call to deny a potential game-changing try by Kelly.
In a heart-pounding match against the Knights, Kelly believed he had scored a crucial try with only four minutes left on the clock to even the scores.
However, the Bunker ruled that he had lost control of the ball, ultimately sealing Newcastle's 28-24 victory.
Coach Des Hasler was visibly furious post-game, adamant that it was a clear try and questioning why his team wasn't awarded a penalty for a strip.
"I get the passion behind it for the clubs, but no amount of passion can turn a non-try into a try," Annesley stated firmly.
"These decisions are scrutinized down to the smallest detail, because that's how everyone else dissects the game.
The Bunker had to make a call based on the evidence presented to them.
They determined that the ball was initially in Kelly's possession, but a frame or two later, it was on the ground."
In the world of Rugby League, every call is crucial and can make or break a match.
While emotions may run high, the Bunker's decision ultimately stood, leaving the Titans to regroup and refocus for their next game.