Ryan Papenhuyzen Escapes $1500 Penalty Following Late Decision by the Bunker

Ryan Papenhuyzen has been acquitted by the NRL judiciary after facing charges for a tackle that went unnoticed by both the referee and commentators.

The Storm fullback was placed on report for a tackle on Dolphins centre Jake Averillo during the 77th minute of their encounter.

As Melbourne attempted their fifth tackle, they lost possession, allowing Averillo to get past Papenhuyzen.

The fullback struggled to execute a clean tackle, his arm swinging around Averillo’s chest, leading to the centre being brought down to the ground. Subsequently, Papenhuyzen landed on Averillo, with his elbow appearing dangerously close to Averillo’s head.

Play resumed, and the Storm managed to score three minutes later.

Before Papenhuyzen proceeded to take his conversion, referee Todd Smith recorded him on report.

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The commentators from Nine were equally baffled regarding the reason behind his penalty.

Papenhuyzen was charged with grade one dangerous contact and offered a $1000 fine, which he contested. Had he been found guilty at the judiciary, the penalty would have increased to $1500.

In contrast, Toafofoa Sipley faced a different fate, receiving a four-match suspension for a hip-drop tackle.