The NRL is investigating Parramatta over an incident involving a trainer during Friday’s 22-20 win over Penrith at BlueBet Stadium.
The incident in question occurred in the 53rd minute of the clash as trainer Steve Murphy ran in front of the goalposts as Nathan Cleary attempted a conversion kick.
With that kick missing slightly to the right, the question has been posed as to whether it influenced Cleary’s attempt and therefore the result, particularly as the Eels prevailed by two points.
With the NRL investigating, SEN’s Michelle Bishop says Parramatta are “adamant” that it wasn’t a purposeful tactic.
“I’m not investigating, but the NRL is,” Bishop said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“The Eels may face some kind of breach notice for this, the incident happened in the 53rd minute of the game of the Panthers v Parramatta match on Friday night.
“Penrith were up 14-10, one of the (Parramatta) trainers – who is a veteran trainer Steve Murphy, appeared to race away from where the Eels were gathered and over to where the goal line is in front of the posts right as Cleary was kicking.
“The NRL is investigating it, the rules state – they are very clear – that trainers must not enter the line of sight of a player when he is attempting to kick for a goal or do anything that may interfere with a player when he is participating in the match.
“The Eels have been asked about it, they are adamant it wasn’t deliberate and it was just something that happened.
“It adds to the hostility between the clubs that’s built up other the last few years, particularly with the fans, you really felt it this time around.”
Penrith board member and SEN host Greg Alexander expects Murphy to be fined and face a suspension as a result of the investigation.
“Where was he running to? Where was he heading?,” Alexander asked.
“You just read the rule out, I think he broke the rule.
“He’ll be fined and suspended for a couple of games I’m guessing.”
I didn't think this was allowed @NRL . Parramatta trainer running right in front cleary when kicking for goal #nrlpantherseels pic.twitter.com/g6aOEhChG9
— 𝖘𝖙𝖚𝖆𝖗𝖙 (@stuartp84) May 6, 2022