Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Cody Walker sin bin drama hurt South Sydney Rabbitohs badly on Friday night, with the captain’s kick at Jack Cogger costing Dayne Jennings his first National Rugby League try against Penrith Panthers.
The Rabbitohs were trying to fight back after Dylan Edwards gave Penrith a fast start with a solo try, but Walker’s moment changed the game. Instead of South Sydney closing the gap, Jennings’ try was wiped off and Walker was sent to the bin.
For more rugby league news, read Matt Burton Joins Blues Camp After Late Injury Scare Explodes State of Origin Preparations, while official match updates are available through the National Rugby League website.
Walker Moment Turns Match
The incident came after Walker lashed out at Cogger following a tackle. Bunker official Chris Butler described the act as “deliberate” and “completely unnecessary” before referee Adam Gee sent Walker from the field.
Gee was blunt with Walker, telling him “you’re the captain” and “you’ve just cost them a try”. Penrith then marched downfield and scored through Liam Henry, turning the call into a major swing.
Experts Slam Discipline
Premiership-winning halfback Cooper Cronk called it a “selfish” play from Walker.
“Frustrated with something from Cogger, but you just don’t do that,” he added on Fox League.
“Alamoti saw it. Lindsay Smith saw it, and unfortunately, Cody Walker has a record of doing things like this and has just cost his team big time,” Cronk said.
Greg Alexander also questioned Walker’s short fuse.
“The short fuse has been there forever, but I think this year has been worse than ever,” added Greg Alexander.
“I’ve never seen anything like this. It’s with the ball... I haven’t seen Cody do something and I haven’t seen many players do something like this that’s cost your team a try.”
Ennis Raises Concern
Walker was booed by Penrith supporters with every touch after returning from the sin bin. The reaction showed how quickly the moment had become the main story of the night.
“I was no angel on the field but emotions have got the better of Cody a number of times,” Michael Ennis said.
“It was significant and it’s a concern because they are without some of their big stars tonight, and he’s their best player.”
