Andrew Johns Outraged as Angus Crichton Faces Penalty for Late Tackle: ‘That’s Only Fair Play’

Andrew Johns expressed his frustration following a controversial moment during Thursday night’s match between the Sydney Roosters and Brisbane.

Despite the game turning into a lopsided contest at Allianz Stadium, with the in-form Broncos scoring 50 points, there was one incident that particularly upset the rugby league legend.

In the second half, back-rower Angus Crichton delivered a solid hit on Broncos playmaker Ben Hunt, sending the veteran crashing to the ground just as he kicked the ball.

The on-field officials did not call a penalty at first, much to the displeasure of Broncos captain Adam Reynolds.

Commentator Mat Thompson pointed out, “Crichton has hit Hunt … Adam Reynolds is right there, voicing his concerns to Gerard Sutton.”

However, after some discussion, Sutton eventually penalised Crichton for the late tackle.

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Johns was left bewildered by the decision, emphasising his long-standing view on the need for defenders to respect kickers in general play.

“Look at it in real time,” he remarked.

“No one has been a bigger advocate for the protection of halfbacks and kickers over the last decade than I have—yet you can’t prevent them from being hit. It’s all part of fair play. He kicks the ball and it’s simultaneous.”

“He doesn’t contact the head. There still needs to be pressure applied to the halfback.”

“For me, that’s simply not a penalty.”

Crichton is not expected to face charges from the match review committee, but any suspension could be a significant setback for the Roosters, especially with Spencer Leniu and Victor Radley already unavailable.

Trent Robinson remains optimistic that Crichton will be fit to contest the Panthers.

“I think it was a late hit, and I agree with the penalty, it was around the chest,” he stated.

“It shouldn’t have occurred, but I don’t believe it warrants a suspension.”