Referee Klein dropped for Tigers-Cowboys howler

Ashley Klein is set to be dropped from all officiating duties this week over the decision that robbed Wests Tigers of victory against North Queensland.

Klein was in the bunker when Tigers back Asu Kepaoa was judged to have illegally run Kyle Felt off the ball. The NRL’s head of football, Graham Annesley, has conceded the decision was wrong and cost the Tigers a famous upset victory.

The NRL will announce its refereeing and bunker appointments later on Tuesday, but Klein is expected to be stood down for the weekend.

Rugby League Central is mindful of making its officials accountable and is also conscious of pulling Klein out of the spotlight.

Klein was considered the game’s top whistleblower after officiating the State of Origin matches.

“He’s been our No. 1 referee over recent months. He refereed all three Origins, he’s been operating in the bunker now for many years, he performs to a very high standard. We just don’t agree with the decision he made [on Sunday],” Annesley said on Monday.

Ashley Klein is set to be overlooked for duties this week.Credit:NRL Photos

“There is no more accountable job than officiating in the NRL. We have a history of putting our hands up when things go wrong. Where we feel there is a justification for officials to be accountable for their decisions through demotion, then those sorts of decisions will be taken.”

Stream the NRL Premiership 2022 live and free on 9Now.

News, results and expert analysis from the weekend of sport sent every Monday. Sign up for our Sport newsletter.

Most Viewed in Sport

Source: Read Full Article