James Tedesco’s unlucky run with the NRL Bunker has continued

NRL Bunker 9, James Tedesco 3. That is the stat the unlucky Wests Tigers fullback has notched this season after having his ninth try knocked back by the review system.

Nine times James Tedesco has been denied by the NRL Bunker.

VIDEO referees are killing this Wests Tigers star.

The NRL bunker has denied James Tedesco tries a whopping nine times this season through obstructions, offsides, dropped balls and being held up over the line.

But NSW Origin fullback hopes to finally crack get across the line for his 50th career four-pointer on Sunday this weekend when the Tigers try to derail the Penrith Panthers’ finals charge.

Tedesco was literally forced to see red again on Sunday because of an obstruction call against the Gold Coast, and told The Daily Telegraph his lightning turn of foot when cutting back in field often made it impossible for his poor old Tigers teammates to get out of the way of defenders.

“Is it only nine times?’’ Tedesco asked.

Nine times James Tedesco has been denied by the NRL Bunker.

“I’ve been aware there have been a few no tries.

“It can’t be helped. Often when I’m running I don’t know where I’m going, so it’s hard for the boys to get out of the way.

“It normally happens when I’m stepping back in field. And when someone stops in the line or before the line, there will be issues.

“The frustrating thing is when you know the defenders aren’t affected, but it’s still a ‘no try’.

“Hopefully I can get over for 50 this weekend.’’

Tedesco has bagged four tries this season, even though he had to endure the nervous wait on three occasions when the decision was sent upstairs.

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If awarded all nine tries, Tedesco would have 13 tries in 16 games, just off competition frontrunner Alex Johnston on 16, with Melbourne’s Suliasi Vunivalu, who has been denied by the video referee five times, on 15.

The only game a Tedesco no-try ruling could have had a bearing on the result was the six-point loss to Cronulla at Leichhardt Oval, when the fullback was denied because of Paul Gallen’s famous pirouette when grabbed by skipper Aaron Woods in back play.

While Tedesco has been brilliant for the Tigers, especially since Origin finished, Tigers fans will also be saddened their gun No. 1 will feature in the club colours five more times before crossing town to link with the Sydney Roosters.

Tedesco has five matches remaining in Tigers colours.

“I think I’m realising I’ve only got a few games left with the Tigers and I want to end on a high,’’ Tedesco said.

“It’s been a frustrating year, it’s been an up and down year, my goal was to finish strong after the Origin period, and make the most of the time with the boys.

“Once all the contract stuff was sorted, it clears your mind and you can just focus on footy.’’

Tedesco will get the chance to farewell the Tigers faithful in style with two more games at Leichhardt Oval and his spiritual home Campbelltown Sports Stadium.

Panthers flyer Josh Mansour, who famously flew to Canberra a few years ago with Tedesco and almost became a Raider, said of his bearded buddy: “He’s skyrocketed since Origin. He’s been in great form. He plays with his heart on his sleeve every game, and there’s no doubt we’ll be doing our homework on him.’’

Originally published as James Tedesco’s unlucky run with the NRL Bunker has continued