
Maroons supporters are voicing their discontent over a controversial ruling that shifted the trajectory of Game 1 in the State of Origin series.
The Queensland team put together a strong performance against the NSW Blues, racing to a 20-0 lead within the first quarter.
However, the game took a dramatic turn when Kalyn Ponga, the fullback, was sent off in the 57th minute after a collision with Tolutau Koula that left the latter concussed.
This decision has been met with skepticism, as many believe the call was excessive given the footage suggesting a possible head-on-head impact in addition to the shoulder connection.
The commentary team from Nine suggested that a sin-bin would have been more appropriate, with Blues icon Andrew Johns labeling the decision "outrageous" and former Queensland player Darren Lockyer expressing his "shock" at the ruling.
Despite their concerns, referee Ashley Klein appeared to dismiss input from the bunker and insisted on the red card.
This call allowed NSW the opportunity to mount a comeback, which disappointed fans in Queensland.
Maroons legend Corey Parker has criticized Klein's decision, asserting that he should not referee any future Origin matches due to the severity of the ruling against Ponga with over 20 minutes left to play.
