Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Wests Tigers coach Benji Marshall has questioned the role of the NRL Bunker following a controversial incident during his side's clash with the Dolphins, while Apisai Koroisau has broken his silence on being left unused during State of Origin Game II. Marshall's concerns came after Tigers halfback Jock Madden suffered a heavy hit and later failed a head injury assessment, while Koroisau addressed his surprise bench role for New South Wales after returning to club duties.
The Tigers battled strongly for much of the contest before the Dolphins pulled away in the closing stages.
Despite the defeat, Marshall's post match comments focused on the officiating decision surrounding Madden's injury.
Marshall Questions Bunker Intervention
The incident occurred in the opening quarter when Madden was hit heavily by Dolphins forward Morgan Knowles while attacking the line.
Madden was forced from the field for a head injury assessment and later failed the test, ruling him out of the remainder of the game.
Despite concerns from Tigers players and coaching staff, no penalty was awarded and the incident was not placed on report.
The decision left several Tigers players visibly frustrated on the field.
Marshall admitted after the match that he believed the contact warranted closer examination.
"I don't know what the Bunker is allowed and not allowed to do anymore. I'm not sure," Marshall said.
The Tigers coach indicated he felt the challenge was late and questioned why the review system was unable to intervene.
Tigers Rue Missed Opportunity
While disappointed by the result, Marshall praised his side's effort against one of the competition's stronger teams.
The Tigers remained in contention deep into the second half and trailed by only two points at 18 to 16 before the Dolphins pulled clear.
Marshall felt the contest was there for the taking but acknowledged crucial moments late in the match ultimately proved costly.
"We were definitely in it. I thought at 18-16, we had a real big chance and playing against a team like the Dolphins we were right in the thick of it," he said.
The coach also pointed to injuries as a significant challenge.
Losing Madden early forced changes to the team's structure, while Patrick Herbert also left the contest, requiring players to shift positions throughout the game.
Despite those setbacks, Marshall said he was proud of the effort shown by his squad.
Koroisau Addresses Origin Bench Role
Meanwhile, Tigers captain Apisai Koroisau has spoken publicly for the first time since being left on the bench throughout New South Wales' State of Origin Game II victory.
Koroisau was selected as part of Laurie Daley's interchange but was not called upon during the match in Melbourne.
The decision surprised many observers given Koroisau's experience and ability to provide impact around the ruck.
However, the veteran hooker said he fully understood the coaching staff's reasoning.
"It's actually pretty good. Obviously prepared well for Origin but didn't get on and that's just what the team needed at the time," Koroisau said.
The Tigers skipper made it clear he held no resentment over the decision and remained focused on supporting the Blues.
Happy To Return To Club Duties
Koroisau also praised his Tigers teammates for helping him transition back into club football after the representative period.
He said the support from players and staff had been important and allowed him to quickly refocus on club responsibilities.
The experienced hooker explained he was eager to return to the Tigers environment and contribute to the team's campaign.
"I was just keen to get back into clubland and do my job here today," he said.
Koroisau added that he believed the Tigers started strongly and showed encouraging signs despite ultimately falling short.
Tigers Looking To Improve
The Tigers now face another challenge as they prepare for life without Madden next week due to concussion protocols.
Marshall acknowledged there were several areas his side needed to improve, particularly in managing key moments late in games.
While encouraged by the commitment shown by his players, he believes valuable lessons can be taken from the defeat.