Experts were left confused over the Bunker’s decision to put Tom Flegler on report early during the Broncos shock 18-12 loss to the Titans, only days after its coach Justin Holbrook was ruthlessly sacked.
The Queensland Maroons prop went hard into a tackle on Jaimin Jolliffe which wasn’t initially penalised.
Jolliffe then stayed down before the Bunker intervened and Flegler was put on report.
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Footage showed Flegler’s head clearly connected with Jolliffe’s shoulder, however the contact towards the Titans prop’s head wasn’t completely clear.
On commentary, league legend Steve ‘Blocker’ Roach wasn’t certain the Broncos prop had connected high with his opponent.
“I don’t think so … Flegler got hit on the chin from the shoulder of Jolliffe,” he said on Fox League.
Broncos legend Steve Renouf agreed on the sideline.
“I agree boys, there’s not much in that, I thought it was a great hit but there you go,” he said.
Flegler will now await a decision from the match review committee.
For the Broncos, it was a case of dysfunctional attack and a number of opportunities missed with the Bunker having an incredibly busy afternoon.
Flegler started the day with a try in the 28th minute, moments after he was put on report.
David Fifita then helped level proceedings right on half-time, barging over close to the line.
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The Titans hit back after the break with Brian Kelly going over to make it 10-6.
Alofiana Khan-Pereira showed incredible pace in the 52nd minute to burn Selwyn Cobbo down the sideline with an upset on the cards.
Controversy reigned not long after when Reece Walsh appeared to have scored. However, the Bunker ruled Jordan Riki had obstructed David Fifita in the lead up.
Bunker stops Walsh try
The Titans second-rower then came under scrutiny from Roach.
“He played it pretty well, Academy award there for Fifita,” he said.
Brisbane eventually broke through with Ezra Mam scoring to make it 12-6 with 18 minutes left.
The home side’s afternoon was summed up when Reece Walsh over ran in support of Selwyn Cobbo from a kick return, and was then marched 10 metres for verbal dissent. Tanah Boyd kicked the penalty goal to seal a 18-12 win.
Match Highlights: Brisbane Broncos v Gold Coast Titans
NRL premiership winner Michael Ennis was strong in his criticism of the Broncos.
“I think Brisbane threw that away,” he said.
“Kevvie Walters will be livid with his side, there was a couple of really bad chances missed in that second half but overall I don’t think it had the intensity of what we’ve seen from Brisbane this year.”
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