The Dolphins produced a stunning comeback performance to defeat the Canterbury Bulldogs 44-12 in the NRL, but the match was overshadowed by controversy surrounding Jacob Preston’s sin-bin for a late tackle on Isaiya Katoa.
The incident occurred late in the first half when Preston delivered a heavy hit on Dolphins halfback Isaiya Katoa moments after the ball had been released. Referee Grant Atkins ruled the tackle unnecessary and dangerous, sending the Bulldogs forward to the sin-bin for 10 minutes.
The decision immediately sparked debate among players, fans and commentators. Rugby league great Johnathan Thurston openly criticised the ruling during the broadcast, stating that officials “got that call wrong” and arguing Preston had little time to pull out of the tackle.
Former Melbourne Storm captain Cameron Smith, however, noted that the modern game has become increasingly strict on late contact involving vulnerable players, especially when a player is unaware of the incoming hit.
The sin-bin proved costly for Canterbury. The Dolphins scored two tries during Preston’s absence and completely shifted momentum after trailing early in the contest. Jamayne Isaako starred for the hosts with a hat-trick as the Dolphins piled on 40 unanswered points in a ruthless second-half display.
The defeat continued the Bulldogs’ disappointing run, with the side now winless in four consecutive matches and slipping further down the NRL ladder. Questions are also likely to arise over whether Preston could face further scrutiny from the match review committee ahead of State of Origin selection discussions.
Meanwhile, the Dolphins will take confidence from one of their most dominant performances of the season as they continue pushing for momentum in the 2026 NRL campaign.
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