LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a classic clash of titans, Gorden Tallis and Michael Maguire locked horns once more in a fiery exchange over the controversial ban lengths handed down to Blues players following the heated melee in the State of Origin decider.
The Queensland legend and the New South Wales coach, who have been at loggerheads throughout the series, finally faced off on Fox Sports' NRL 360.
The tension simmered under the surface as pleasantries were exchanged, but it wasn't long before Tallis, in his typical fiery fashion, unleashed a verbal onslaught on the NSW mentor, questioning the fairness of the two-week bans handed out.
"It's good to see you and Gordy so pleasant to each other," quipped Phil Rothfield of The Daily Telegraph before delving into the sideline brawl with Maguire.
The NRL judiciary wasted no time in dishing out the match review charges, with Haumole Olakau'atu and Cameron Murray finding themselves in hot water for their involvement in the scuffle.
Olakau'atu, decked out in a sharp suit on the sidelines, and Murray, who charged in from the bench, were the only players slapped with suspensions in the aftermath.
In a showdown reminiscent of rugby league battles of yore, Tallis and Maguire sparred before bidding adieu to the State of Origin series, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this gripping rivalry.