Most geniused excuse ever. Soward didn't "push" the ball out, it was planted on his leg and leilua lost control. Have the rules changed at some point and players aren't allowed to touch the ball if you're a defender now? If Soward kicked it out, or raked it out I would agree with you but at no point did soward apply pressure to remove the ball. It was planted on the top of his thigh and leilua lost it cold. You're an absolute imbecile if you think otherwise.
For the record, I don't think the Roosters had that much momentum in the first half either, it was a close fought contest. The Roosters forward pack just didn't pull their weight in the 2nd half, you can put whatever spin on it you want. Winners are grinners and some Rooster's fans are terrible losers.
For the record, I've played the game since I was 6, all the way up until I
was 28. In all that time it was always easier to blame the ref rather than accept my own shortcomings, but you know what, I don't care because we're premiers.
Once more for the dummies, i.e Firey Dragon
Did Soward move his leg toward the ball? Yes
Was he trying to impede Leilua? Yes
Did he assist in knocking the ball away? Yes
Soward was perfectly legal in doing this, but once he did, the ball was legitimately in play for Anasta to score. Having the ball knocked away when in the act of putting the ball down is not a "loose carry" - look at the rules goose! Hence a try was awarded.
Surely you arent insisting this is the same as a bloke passing the ball with both feet in touch??
BTW, I too played, coached and reffed for many years.
I'm sure you had many "shortcomings" as a player, it's a shame you havent learnt from them as an observer.:roll: