LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
NRL under fire for unsightly Melbourne Storm and Rabbitohs showdown as fans demand change
Footy followers were left stunned by the scenes that unfolded during the NRL's Thursday night clash.
Rugby League enthusiasts have slammed the unattractive scenes that played out during the match between the Rabbitohs and the Storm, which took place in front of a dismal crowd at Accor Stadium.
Ryan Papenhuyzen, who is reportedly close to signing a contract extension, delivered a standout performance for the Storm in 2024, guiding them to a 28-16 victory and keeping them at the top of the ladder.
Unfortunately for the Rabbitohs, their hopes of making it to the NRL finals are fading fast, especially with uncertainties surrounding Latrell Mitchell's return in 2024.
Craig Bellamy, the coach of the Storm, was less than impressed with his team's showing and issued a warning that they could be in for a thrashing against the Panthers in the upcoming week.
Despite the entertaining display of attacking footy by both teams, viewers couldn't ignore the sparse crowd at Accor Stadium.
The Rabbitohs played hosts to the Melbourne side in the mid-week game at the 83,000-seat stadium, but official figures revealed that less than 9,000 spectators actually attended the match.
The average attendance at NRL games at Accor Stadium this year has been 17,000.
The lackluster turnout, with large sections of empty seats, didn't escape the notice of fans watching from home.
Even those at the stadium posted videos of the disappointing crowd size, sparking discussions about whether such games should be scheduled at the massive venue or if it should be reserved solely for NRL finals fixtures.