Warriors vs Dolphins: Annesley's message to Bunker as Grant prepares to fight charge
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Warriors interim coach Todd Payten has urged against over-utilising the NRL Bunker during Friday night's clash with the Dolphins at Suncorp Stadium.
Payten's comments came after a controversial captain's challenge in the Warriors' 20-16 loss to the Titans last week, when a Bunker decision went against the Auckland club.
It resulted in an offload from Titans forward David Fifita that led to a try by Greg Marzhew.
"I thought it was a poor decision last week, I've watched it back a few times," Payten said on Thursday.
"The initial call on the field was correct, that's how the game should be reffed."NRL head of football Annesley defended the Bunker's decision post-match, saying it was correct to overturn the on-field call after replays showed Fifita did not lose possession of the ball.
Payten said he expected the Bunker to play a more proactive role this week but hoped officials would not be "over-zealous" in their interventions.
"I'm a big believer in the Bunker, it's a great addition to the game," he said.
"But I think they should only be used in the right circumstances."
Grant set to fight charge over alleged homophobic slur
Meanwhile, Warriors hooker Wayde Egan will face the NRL judiciary on Tuesday night over an alleged homophobic slur directed at Dolphins forward Kenny Bromwich.
Egan was charged with contrary conduct after the incident during last week's match.
Payten said Egan "completely denies" the allegation and is "distraught" at the prospect of being found guilty.
"He's adamant he didn't say it," Payten said.
"He's a good man, Wayde, I've known him for a long, long time."
If found guilty, Egan faces a minimum two-match ban.
NRL 2023 New Zealand Warriors v Dolphins Match Highlights - YouTube
Catch all the highlights from the Warriors v Dolphins match at Suncorp Stadium.
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