In a year where NRL refereeing standards have been in the spotlight and constantly criticised, the performances of the men with the whistles in week two of the finals has been celebrated. Over the second week of the finals, just two six agains were blown by referees Ashley Klein and Grant Atkins, a stark contrast from the 43 blown in the final round of the regular season. That’s an average of 5.
4 six agains per game in Round 27 down to just one apiece in each of last weekend’s semi finals, a stunning turnaround in officiating that was praised by veteran journalist Phil Rothfield. Watch the best coverage of the 2024 NRL finals, with expert analysis and every game until the Grand Final LIVE with no ad-breaks during play, on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial today > MORE NRL NEWS PRELIMS TEAM TIPS: Bellamy’s selection headache as Panthers star returns TALKING POINTS: Sharks drown out ‘noise’ as Teddy answers critics ‘STEAL’: Broncos ‘bargain’ as Walsh’s $1m sacrifice to end contract saga revealed Speaking on Monday morning’s Big Sports Breakfast, Rothfield gave the weekend’s refereeing a glowing review.
“Thank you Ashley Klein. Thank you Grant Atkins. Please do it again this weekend, it is beautiful football,” he said.
Rothfield noted that with the season entering crunchtime, NRL officials are “turning a blind eye to things they weren’t earlier in the year.” “They’re so important six agains, they change the momentum of rugby league ga.