LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has expressed his discomfort regarding recent controversial penalty try rulings linked to attacking players being tackled in the air. As the Storm prepares to target Xavier Coates in their upcoming match against Brian To'o, Cleary's concerns come to the forefront.
To'o and Coates have faced each other multiple times before, with To'o even receiving a sin bin penalty during this year's State of Origin opener for a high tackle on the Queensland winger.
This particular decision stirred considerable discussion and is relevant again following penalty tries awarded to Coates and Cronulla's Teig Wilton in round 23 for being tackled in the air while attempting to catch kicks.
The NRL implemented this rule in the 2020 season to align with international standards and to protect players from potential injuries resulting from aerial contact.
Despite the tackles in question not being deemed dangerous, the NRL stood by the Bunker's rulings, prompting coaches to remain vigilant as the finals approach. When asked for his perspective, Cleary stated, "I'm not comfortable." He further elaborated, "I think it's one of those ones where the rule was originally made, we tend to forget why it was made and we drift off and it becomes something else."