LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Shaun Johnson has responded to the controversy surrounding the Dally M medal, calling it a "robbery" after losing out to Kalyn Ponga by a single point.
Rugby League legend Gorden Tallis has now revealed that he was one of the judges who decided the award this year.
Many fans were outraged by the decision, arguing that Johnson had a better overall season than Ponga.
The discussion on NRL 360 saw the panelists sympathizing with Johnson, but Tallis defended the judges, stating that it was their opinion on the player that mattered.
Despite Johnson's outstanding performance in round 25, where he provided a try assist and a match-sealing field goal, he failed to receive any votes.
This sparked further criticism from fans who believed he deserved recognition for his contribution.
In round 23, Johnson also fell short of maximum votes despite scoring two tries against the Titans.
One judge only awarded him two points instead of three, despite his standout performance.
The controversy surrounding the Dally M medal has left many questioning the fairness of the judging process and the criteria used to determine the winner.