LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
NRL legend Billy Slater has come to the defense of referee Kasey Badger, slamming "coward" fans for their online abuse after round nine's fiery clash between the Wests Tigers and Bulldogs.
The Maroons coach, known for his tough tackling on the field, called out the keyboard warriors and challenged them to try their hand at refereeing if they think they can do better than Badger.
Badger, who has been in the spotlight multiple times this season, found herself embroiled in heated exchanges with players during Saturday's game, leading to a flurry of controversial calls and actions that drew the ire of fans.
Despite the backlash, the NRL has stood by Badger, appointing her as the referee for this weekend's matches, including the showdown between the Sydney Roosters and Warriors.
Slater's impassioned defense of Badger comes on the heels of NRL executives warning players and coaches about the consequences of criticizing referees.
The former Queensland star, known for his lightning speed and agility on the field, has urged for an end to the abuse of referees, emphasizing the importance of respecting the officials on the field.
As Badger prepares to take control of the Roosters-Warriors clash, fans and players alike will be watching closely to see how she handles the pressure.
In a sport where every decision can mean the difference between victory and defeat, Badger's resilience and determination in the face of adversity will be put to the test once again.