NRL Magic Round: Controversial No-Try Decision Denies Dragons
"The team is not receiving favorable calls on close decisions." – Dragons coach Dean Young
The Incident
In the first half of the NRL Magic Round clash between St. George Illawarra Dragons and Penrith Panthers, Dragons hooker Damien Cook had a try disallowed under contentious circumstances. The score stood at 12-0 in favor of Penrith when Cook chipped the ball behind the Panthers' defensive line.
The Play
Penrith winger Brian To'o attempted to take a ground ball but misjudged the bounce. As To'o placed his hands on the ball, Cook kicked it away and regathered to score. The on-field referee initially awarded the try.
Bunker Overturns Decision
However, the Bunker overturned the call, ruling that To'o had possession and that Cook's kick made contact with To'o's hand. The contact was classified as dangerous play. Instead of a try, Cook received a penalty.
Aftermath
The Dragons went on to lose the match 28-6. Coach Dean Young expressed frustration, stating the team is not receiving favorable calls on close decisions.