LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The NRL has come down hard on NSW stars following the State of Origin clash, dishing out harsh bans that some are saying have crossed the line.
Haumole Olakau'atu copped a two-match suspension, but it's the brutal treatment he faced during the game that has raised eyebrows.
The NRL judiciary has laid down the law after the State of Origin decider at Suncorp Stadium, with Olakau'atu and Rabbitohs' Cameron Murray facing time on the sidelines.
A total of ten players have been charged with contrary conduct in the aftermath of the all-in brawl sparked by Daly Cherry-Evans and Jarome Luai's scrap, but only Olakau'atu and Murray will miss game time unless they can successfully appeal at a hearing.
The Manly hardman knew he was in hot water and had no qualms about wading into the melee, even though he was meant to stay on the sidelines as the Blues' 19th man.
His punishment was made even harsher when he was sent off the field and banished to the NSW dressing room for the remainder of the match.
Some are questioning whether the NRL's crackdown has gone too far, with Olakau'atu's ban seen as excessive.
It's a tough blow for the NSW enforcer, but he'll have to take it on the chin and focus on bouncing back when he returns to action.