‘Unacceptable’: Fans fume over Channel 9 State of Origin ‘joke’

Footy fans were left fuming on Wednesday night after the State of Origin decider was repeatedly interrupted by an “unacceptable” sight.

Fans weren't happy with Channel 9

Channel 9 has copped a wave of criticism following Wednesday night’s Origin decider after ads were played during active play due to a lack of stoppages.

Fans were left fuming during NSW’s 14-4 win as the game moved to a split-screen view to allow ads to be broadcast.

At some points, ads were sliced into minor stoppages meaning play was missed altogether.

The decision saw many fans take to social media in criticism of the broadcaster.

Fans weren't happy with Channel 9

“Ch9 are deplorable,’ one user wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

“Tense game, no stoppages, so let’s just have an ad blasted during gameplay. Run a silent ad along the bottom or something. Give me strength.”

Another fan called the decision “a joke”.

“Having an ad while the game happening is unacceptable.”

The slamming of Channel 9’s coverage didn’t stop there, with fans also taking issue with the decision to interview the coaches in the box during the game.

“Going to the coaches box is the worst addition to coverage. Let them coach,” one fan said on X.

“Someone please start a petition to stop Nine’s interviewing of the coaches during play,” another fan said.

Queensland coach Billy Slater is interviewed 12 minutes into the game. Picture: Channel 9

The hate train for Channel 9 was not helped by the fact the clock failed to show the time for the first ten minutes of the game.

In almost an instant tweets started flooding in with many users tagging the network and asking what was going on.

Sensing what was unfolding in front of them, the Channel 9 commentators cleared the air behind the issue.

“With respect to the clock, the official stadium clock here at Suncorp isn’t working properly, so we’ll keep you updated on how that’s progressing,” one commentator stated.

The clock ultimately came to life after around 10 minutes before it malfunctioned again. It ultimately came good a minute or two later.

Criticism of the commentary box

The Nine commentators were also in the firing line with fans calling the commentary team “biased”.

But it was Johns, as well as roaming commentary from Darren Lockyer, that fuelled the most frustration online.

“Channel 9 need a fresh #Origin commentary team for 2025. Not engaging whatsoever. Now basically watching on mute.”

Lockyer chimed in towards the 60th minute telling the commentary box: “Not much has gone our way the last 10 mins.”

“Is it just me or does Darren Lockyer offer absolutely no insight with his commentary? “It’s an arm wrestle and players are getting fatigued” 26 minutes in at nil-all. Captain obvious,” one fan said.

Channel Nine has been contacted for comment.