NSW request ‘please explain’ over Triston Reilly no-try decision
Moments before midnight on Saturday, the NSW Waratahs made no secret of their disappointment on social media over the controversial refereeing decision against them at Suncorp Stadium.
The post, which remained alive on Sunday, included a photo of NSW winger Triston Reilly diving near the corner post, along with a screenshot of a ball appearing to be touching the grass rather than the sideline, accompanied by a shrug emoji.
Waratahs winger Triston Reilly dives for the corner. Later, the trial was not allowed by TMO. Credit: Stan Sports
Trailing 19-17 with just over seven minutes remaining, the Waratahs thought they were back in front against the Queensland Reds when referee Ben O’Keeffe awarded a try.
Television match official (TMO) Richard Kelly told O’Keeffe with absolute conviction that the ball had touched the line and the five-pointer could not stand.
Dan McKellar’s stunned reaction in the Waratahs coaching box was priceless – the 26-17 scoreline did not affect his mood – and after the game he invited journalists to share their views on the decision, clearly aware that he did not want to be fined.
“If you explain how they use the TMO, how they referee, if the referee decides it’s a try, it remains a try unless it’s clear and obvious, right?” McKellar asked.
Dan McKellar couldn’t believe Triston Reilly’s attempt was rejected.Credit: Stan Sports
Speaking on condition of anonymity on Sunday, franchise players said the Waratahs were “stunned” by the call in the clash between Australian rugby’s longest-running rivals.
The photo, shared by the Waratahs and confirmed by vision provided by Stan Sport, represents the clearest evidence that NSW may be in dire straits. These are small margins, of course, but the TMO did not spend too much time coming to a decision in this case.
