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Headgear Tussle Leads to Surprising Penalty Decision in NRL Clash
23 Aug
Summary
- Storm players ruffled Bulldogs player's hair, leading to a penalty
- Referee reversed original call, awarding penalty to Bulldogs
- Bulldogs scored a crucial try after the penalty, but Storm won the match
On August 20th, 2025, the Melbourne Storm hosted the Canterbury Bulldogs in a tense NRL match. Midway through the second half, with the Storm leading 18-6, the Bulldogs' Matt Burton knocked the ball on while pressing the Storm line. The delighted Storm players decided to rub it in, with winger Grant Anderson ruffling Burton's trademark headgear, leading to a brief melee between the two sides.
Surprisingly, referee Adam Gee then reversed his original call and awarded a penalty to the Bulldogs, stating that Anderson's touch on Burton's head had instigated the reaction. The Bulldogs took full advantage of the penalty, scoring a crucial try through a fired-up Viliame Kikau just moments later. However, the Storm ultimately prevailed, winning the match 20-14.
The incident highlighted the fine line players must walk when it comes to gamesmanship, as even a seemingly harmless gesture can lead to unexpected consequences. The Storm will be relieved that the controversial penalty call did not ultimately swing the outcome of the match in the Bulldogs' favor.
