Rugby league’s referee crisis has deepened after a controversial call in Thursday night’s blockbuster match left fans and commentators fuming.
Footy legend Paul Vautin was seething in the commentary box when referee Grant Atkins blew a contentious penalty – describing it as ‘BS’ and a ‘gee up’ live on air.
The controversy started when Cronulla Sharks player Matt Moylan collided with Brisbane Broncos’ Jamayne Isaako as the pair both jumped for a high ball.
Cameras clearly showed the pair staring directly at the ball as they went in the air, but Atkins quickly blew his whistle after Isaako came off second best.
Rugby League commentators have tore into NRL referees after a Cronulla sharks player was penalised for a dangerous tackle on Thursday
Fans quickly took to social media to share their opinions on the controversial call
‘That’s called a collision you know what that is, that’s BS, he’s made that up, what gee up!’ Vautin said in disbelief.
Andrew Johns supported Vautin’s call and said it was clear both players only had eyes for the ball – neither was trying to take out the other.
Atkins was approached by Cronulla Sharks captain Andrew Fifita and explained his decision, but only further infuriated fans and commentators alike.
‘Accidents happen but ultimately it’s his contact that puts him in a dangerous position,’ he said.
Fans quickly took to social media to share their opinion on the controversial call.
‘A big shame that the refs are ruining the game at the moment (and this seasons) Making up calls when they make errors. Somethings gotta change,’ one fan wrote.
‘How is that a mid air tackle? I don’t follow either team.. but that’s ridiculous another added.
The Broncos went on to win the game 12 points to 10.
Fans quickly took to social media to share their opinion on the controversial call
The call follows a tough week for rugby league boss Todd Greenberg, who assured fans there would be accountability for referees after a terrible week of officiating.
Greenberg said officials for this weekend had to be picked for this weekend with those poor performances in mind.
‘Frustrated sometimes, really frustrated,’ Greenberg said of his emotions.
‘We’ve got to be getting those decisions right. They impact games, they impact livelihoods and we’ve got to get better.
‘You can take it that [Tuesday’s] appointments will reflect some of that disappointment.
‘There has to be accountability across all the board, including me. You can expect there will be accountability [on Tuesday].’
Thankfully Isaako (pictured) was not injured in the incident