Phil Gould Allegations: Teams ‘Cheating’ the HIA System as He Claims NRL Struggles to Regulate Rule Discrepancies

Phil Gould has launched a scathing critique of the NRL, asserting that the governing body has lost grip on the officiating of matches, thus paving the way for questionable tactics by teams looking to exploit penalties and six-again calls, as well as manipulating the HIA protocols.

This season has seen the introduction of new disruptor rules, six agains, and heightened scrutiny of high tackles, all of which have sparked considerable discussion regarding officiating standards.

Last round, the NRL conceded that the Bunker had made erroneous decisions on two critical calls related to the disruptor rule.

Moreover, there has been ongoing debate about ruck infringement decisions since the season’s inception, with many fans confused by the lack of real-time explanations following six again calls from officials.

Speaking on Nine’s 100% Footy, Gould, who heads the football department at Canterbury, remarked that referees may be under the illusion they are performing well because “no one is holding them accountable”.

“There’s been no proper education on what we are aiming to achieve,” he claimed.

“They’re not players; they are officials, and that presents its own challenges.

“For over thirty years, our game has granted too much leeway to referees and allowed coaches too much sway over the rules. We need to remove both from the equation to resolve the issues we face.”

Gould further expressed his belief that the disruptor rule—dismissively referred to by him as the “dementor rule”—has reached an excessive level. He conveyed his annoyance at how teams exploit rules intended for player safety.

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“Just look at how frequently we see those six again calls; it’s ridiculous,” he said.

“It’s impacting the game significantly, with the ongoing scrutiny of high tackles and related issues. Some teams are bending the rules by exaggerating high tackles and seeking penalties.

“There are teams that are playing the HIA system, faking HIAs to bring off their larger forwards.

“They can get away with it because the game has lost control. Although it’s aware of the situation, it lacks the ability to manage it effectively due to the mess it has created.

“A firm approach is needed to tackle this problem, yet we currently lack that determination.”