Melbourne have survived a highly controversial decision in their thrilling 34-30 win against the Sydney Roosters on Thursday night.
In a dramatic game at Allianz Stadium that saw superstar halfback Jahrome Hughes forced off with a dislocated shoulder, the visitors managed to walk away with the two points despite a bizarre miss from the Bunker in the second half.
With both teams trading the lead, the hosts moved clear again in the 64th minute as utility Zach Dockar-Clay cleaned up a loose ball from a Sam Walker bomb.
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Roosters players celebrated in jubilation, but replays would show that James Tedesco was offside as he chased through Walker’s kick and became involved in the play.
James Tedesco chases through Sam Walker’s kick Nine
“Is Teddy onside here? We’ll have a look at this one, I think he might be offside. He normally never gets that wrong either,” Andrew Johns said on Nine.
Johnathan Thurston agreed and was critical of Tedesco’s attention to detail.
“I think he is offside the skipper – you just can’t get that wrong Teddy,” he said.
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But in an incredible twist, video official Chris Butler gave it the all clear.
“Are they looking at it? I’m watching the referee – try confirmed,” Johns said in disbelief.
Thurston could only offer the word “wow” as an aerial shot painted a clear picture.
Melbourne managed to take the lead through Stefano Utoikamanu with less than 10 minutes remaining, before the Tricolours looked to steal it in the dying stages.
The aerial shot of James Tedesco’s kick chase Nine
But a forward pass on the final play of the game was ruled and the Storm held on.
“One of their great wins … they have prevailed in an absolute epic,” Mat Thompson said as the full-time siren went at Moore Park.
Harry Grant was at his brilliant best, willing the wounded Storm to victory in enemy territory with Cameron Munster, Ryan Papenhuyzen and Nelson Asofa-Solomona all on the sidelines and Hughes going off after half time.
