Controversy Erupts in NRL Finals Opener as Bulldogs Star Charged Over High Shot
The 2025 NRL Finals series got off to a heated start as the Canterbury Bulldogs and Melbourne Storm clashed in a physical encounter that saw several controversial tackles, though only one player has been charged.
Bulldogs forward Josh Curran is facing a monetary penalty after being cited by the Match Review Committee (MRC) for a Grade 1 Careless High Tackle on Storm centre Jack Howarth. Curran is looking at a fine ranging between $1800 and $2500 but will avoid suspension.
Despite multiple incidents during the game — including a hip-drop tackle and another high shot — Curran was the only player charged. Storm coach Craig Bellamy expressed frustration after the match, particularly over a tackle from Bulldogs utility Jaeman Salmon on Cameron Munster. Bellamy believed it warranted at least being placed on report, but officials took no action.
Speaking in the post-match press conference, Bellamy hinted at inconsistency in how dangerous tackles are being judged.
“The one thing I noticed today – maybe it was the slow play-the-balls, maybe not – but it seems the league sees hip drops differently now,” he said. “I don’t think players deliberately try to drop their hip on someone’s legs, but we’ve seen others suspended for similar tackles in the past. Now it seems like it’s just considered an accident.”
While no players will miss time through suspension, the incident has reignited debate over how the NRL adjudicates contact in key finals matches.
