LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
NRL fans are expressing their frustration after Latrell Mitchell's actions went unpunished following a try by the Gold Coast Titans. Despite this, Mitchell delivered an outstanding performance as the Rabbitohs secured a 20-18 victory, helping them rise from the bottom of the ladder and move closer to potentially avoiding the wooden spoon.
In a shift to the centre position, Mitchell contributed significantly by assisting in two tries for Alex Johnston and gaining 115 metres over 14 carries. He also achieved a crucial try-saver by knocking the ball away from Jayden Campbell just before a try could be scored.
However, many fans felt he should have been sin-binned for an incident with Sam Verrills, who scored a try in the 65th minute, bringing the Titans within two points. Frustrated after allowing the score, Mitchell grabbed Verrills by the back of the jersey and threw him to the ground well after the try was confirmed, igniting a melee as Titans players reacted to his actions.
While there was no clear justification for an eight-point try, fans argued that Mitchell should have received a penalty for foul play off the ball. They noted how two Roosters players and two Dolphins players had been sent to the bin the previous night after a similar situation, although in that instance there had been a prior warning from referee Gerard Sutton, which did not occur in Mitchell's case.
Many fans took to social media to voice their opinions, with one stating: "Latrell Mitchell has taken some agitator pills pre game. That is clear foul play on Sam Verrills after the try." Another added: "If another player did what Latrell did they would be in the sin bin." A third commenter questioned: "Why wasn't there a penalty kick after the conversion. Against Mitchell for his actions after the try?"