3 minute read

A controversial seven-tackle set and late penalty proved decisive as the Tigers edged the Eels in golden point.

Parramatta Eels were left to rue a controversial finish after their golden point loss to Wests Tigers in round five, with a seven-tackle set proving decisive late in the match.

The Tigers secured a dramatic win when Jock Madden kicked a penalty goal from close range in golden point.

The opportunity came after Eels forward Dylan Walker rushed out of the defensive line to pressure a field goal attempt, conceding a penalty that ultimately settled the game.

Moments earlier, the contest had turned on a missed field goal from Mitchell Moses. Attempting a long-range strike from 40 metres, Moses pushed the ball just right of the upright.

While some spectators believed it had gone through, the ruling stood, and the ball travelling dead handed the Tigers a seven-tackle set.

That sequence shifted momentum. With the extra tackles, the Tigers advanced upfield, capitalised on an Eels error, and drew a further penalty that set up Madden's match-winning kick.

The rule awarding a seven-tackle set in these situations has again come under scrutiny. Critics argue it discourages attacking play, particularly in golden point, where teams may hesitate to attempt a match-winning field goal due to the risk of conceding possession and territory.

A similar scenario unfolded earlier this season when Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs benefited from a seven-tackle set after a missed drop goal against the St George Illawarra Dragons.

The resulting field position helped the Bulldogs secure victory, reinforcing concerns about the rule's impact.

Queensland great Johnathan Thurston has already called for a review, arguing teams should not be effectively penalised for attempting to win.

Fellow commentator Brad Fittler supported that view, noting the imbalance created when an attacking play leads directly to a defensive advantage.

The NRL has adjusted related in-goal rules this season, reducing certain situations back to six tackles, but the field goal scenario remains unchanged.

Despite the debate, Parramatta's late error proved costly. The side will also be concerned by injuries, with Bailey Simonsson suffering a dislocated ankle and Jonah Pezet leaving the field with a hamstring issue.