Winger Matt Utai is back and referee Tony Archer may be gone after a controversial night at Campbelltown Stadium finished with the Bulldogs in sole possession of top spot on the NRL ladder and the Wests Tigers bemoaning their run of outs with officialdom.

Utai, who reclaimed his place on the first grade wing earlier this month after a stint in Premier League, was at the centre of the two decisive moments as the Bulldogs hung on against the resilient Tigers, winning 24-20 before a crowd in excess of 16,000.

With the Bulldogs leading 14-8 at halftime, Utai knocked on in his own in-goal from the second half kick-off but was allowed to play on by Archer and his fellow officials.

Within a minute Hazem El Masri crossed in the corner and the 'Dogs led 18-8.

"I got in trouble last time for not playing to the whistle so I grabbed the ball and kept going," Utai said.

"I was surprised because I thought they'd go back to the video referee when they scored the try."

Tigers coach Tim Sheens, who boycotted a press conference earlier this month because he felt his side was harshly dealt with by the match officials, was rightly disappointed with the decision.

"I don't want to cost the club any money," Sheens said.

"We have had three referees this year put in reserve grade and I think there will be an official or two go in reserve grade after tonight as well.

"These games it's so important to get the decisions right.

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