NRL to investigate Storm claims - Sports News - Fanatics - the world's biggest events

NRL to investigate Storm claims

By Sharon Mathieson And Brent Read 12/09/2003 11:28:58 PM Comments (0)

The National Rugby League will launch an investigation on Monday over Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy's complaint to the video referee about a spate of penalties against his team for holding the heads of opponents in tackles.

NRL chief operating officer Graham Annesley confirmed Bellamy approached either video referee Mick Stone or Graeme West after the Storm was slapped with three penalties early in tonight's 30-18 win over Canberra.

The penalties were for hanging onto an opponents head following a tackle, a tactic seen as slowing down the pace of the game.

Club officials can be fined for approaching match officials during a game.

A furious Bellamy claimed Raiders coach Matt Elliott had complained to the NRL or referee Tim Mander about Melbourne's tackling style.

But Annesley denied Elliott had contacted the league or spoken with referees.

"It's not been discussed with the NRL or the referees at all," he said.

"I've asked the video referee for a report and I'll have a look at it on Monday.

"He (Bellamy) did speak to him (Stone or West) but there's no suggestion he abused him."

Bellamy said there was no justification for the penalties because they occurred in almost every tackle of every match, no matter what team was involved.

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