Fittler slams “disgraceful” decision

Coach Brad Fittler has responded to statistics which show Sydney Roosters have won just eight from their last 48 penalty counts by labelling one call from referee Gavin Badger on Sunday as “the most disgraceful decision I have ever seen’’.

Australian magazine Rugby League Week has uncovered statistics which support the Roosters’ claims they have consistently run foul of match officials for the best part of two seasons.

Fittler tells RLW: “I am not going to give an interpretation of those stats because I don’t want to cop a $10,000 fine but the decision to send Mitch Aubusson to the sin bin was a disgrace.

“It’s the most disgraceful decision I have ever seen.

“They talk about accountability – well Gavin Badger should be refereeing reserve grade this weekend.”

Fittler was speaking after the Roosters were defeated 17-10 at home to Wests.

Referees coach Robert Finch countered: “You can read into the statistics what you like.

“They have had a wide range of referees during that time, in fact I would say that they have had every referee in the NRL.”