NRL: Panel dumps Harrigan after try error

Bill Harrigan has controlled 392 first grade games between 1986 and 2003, including 10 grand finals. Photo / Getty Images

SYDNEY - The National Rugby League's most experienced match official Bill Harrigan has been dumped as a video referee after incorrectly awarding a try to St George Illawarra during the competition leaders' victory over Manly.

Harrigan, the NRL's assistant referees' coach, has been banished after ruling Dragons centre Mark Gasnier scored despite television replays indicating he lost control of the ball before it rolled over the line. The contentious try in the 30th minute on Monday night pushed the Dragons out to a 10-0 lead and they eventually won the round 23 match 32-10.

Harrigan defended his decision after the match, saying: "It was benefit of the doubt. There was no separation [between ball and Gasnier's hand]."

However, after a review of footage NRL referees' boss Robert Finch said yesterday Harrigan should not have awarded the try and dropped the grand final veteran from video refereeing duties until further notice. Finch said the decision to drop Harrigan should be a wake-up call for all officials.

In the second half Manly five-eighth Kieran Foran scored from a blatant forward pass by Brent Kite, an indiscretion missed by referees Shayne Hayne, Matt Cecchin plus touch judges Steve Carrall and Steve Chiddy. They were not sanctioned.

However, Finch said it was imperative match officials lifted their game with the playoffs looming.

Harrigan controlled 392 first grade games between 1986 and 2003, including 10 grand finals.

- NZPA