LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The NRL has confirmed that the same officiating team, led by referee Ashley Klein, will officiate the upcoming State of Origin decider in Sydney, despite ongoing controversies from the first two matches.
According to zerotackle.com, Klein's officiating drew criticism for an 8-0 penalty count in favor of Queensland during the first half of Game 2, with evidence indicating that New South Wales (the Blues) deserved more penalties.
Following this skewed count, Queensland was able to build a significant lead, which they maintained in the second half as the penalty count evened out.
Klein will again be supported by Chris Butler in the bunker, despite a controversial decision where Butler ruled that Queensland fullback Kalyn Ponga knocked the ball on during an aerial challenge, a call that was met with skepticism as it appeared the ball had gone backwards.
Additionally, Dave Munro and Chris Sutton will serve as the sideline officials for the match.