Phil Gould blasts ‘absurd’ sin bin ruling as NSW’s flawless first half falls apart

NSW’s flawless first half in Origin I took a hit when Brian To’o was sent to the sin bin during the final play before half-time, leading Phil Gould to describe the Bunker’s verdict as “absurd.”

A kick from Daly Cherry-Evans, with mere seconds remaining, sailed towards the sideline while Xavier Coates leapt over To’o. Coates lost control of the ball as he crossed the line, prompting referee Ashley Klein to consult the Bunker to determine if a penalty try was warranted.

“It’s clear he makes contact with Xavier Coates,” Cameron Smith remarked on Nine.

The Bunker’s decision deemed it a professional foul, concluding that the interference prevented Coates from having a fair opportunity.

Consequently, To’o was sent from the field, allowing Valentine Holmes to convert a penalty goal and get the Maroons on the scoreboard just before the break.

At half-time, Queensland legend and current selector Darren Lockyer shared his thoughts, suggesting the ruling was overly severe.

“I felt it was a bit harsh; a professional foul usually indicates intentional wrongdoing, but that seemed more like an instinctive response,” he stated.

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Phil Gould was even more critical, questioning the decision emphatically.

“This is an absurd interpretation of the mid-air tackle rule… I find this interpretation ridiculous and it should not result in a sin bin during an Origin match,” he argued.