NRL 2022: Bunker fallout continues as Wests Tigers take extraordinary new step

It’s been dubbed the worst call of the year, and the Wests Tigers aren't going to cop a decision that could see them finish with the wooden spoon.

The Wests Tigers are demanding answers. Picture; Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images

The fallout from Sunday’s Bunker brain snap in Townsville has continued with furious Wests Tigers officials lodging an official complaint to the NRL with club chief executive Justin Pascoe declaring “we want answers”.

The Tigers looked like they’d pulled off a thrilling comeback upset win over the Cowboys, only for the celebrations to be cut short when North Queensland was awarded a penalty after they were somehow allowed to challenge a decision that hadn’t been made.

The Bunker allowed the challenge and then awarded a penalty for Asu Kepaoa running Kyle Feldt off the ball, even though replays showed the Tigers player only had eyes for the football.

Wests Tigers were denied a win after the bunker ruled an escort play that gave the Cowboys a penalty.

Valentine Holmes slotted the winning penalty goal which keeps the Tigers at the bottom of the ladder.

Pascoe was at the game with club chairman Lee Hagipantelis and the pair are furious that their team was robbed of two crucial competition points.

“We believe the officials got it wrong, plain and simple,” Pascoe said.

“That decision has cost us victory and we want answers.

“Our players worked their backsides off all night to celebrate Jimmy’s 300th game, and they are to be applauded for their efforts.

James Tamou didn’t get to properly celebrate his milestone game. Picture; Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images

“I know officials also work hard to get it right, but this in our opinion was just so wrong.”

The NRL will give an update at Graham Annesley’s weekly press conference this afternoon, but Pascoe wants answers now, with the club confirming on Sunday night that they could explore legal options after what many fans have described as the worst call of the year.

“I have spoken to a number of very experienced players, former players, media commentators, and our own coaching staff, and everyone agrees it was the wrong call,” he said.

“I’m not here to bash officials, I know they are doing their best, but the Bunker is there to avoid howlers.

“We would like an explanation from the NRL, and our members and fans deserve that.”