The NRL is investigating after referee Ashley Klein is reportedly struck by projectiles as he leaves the field following Sunday’s NRL semifinal at Eden Park in Auckland. Footage described in reporting shows Klein being hit with items including bottles, cups and other rubbish while he walks off after Newcastle defeats the Warriors 12-10.
The NRL’s integrity unit is examining what happened in the aftermath and is considering disciplinary action against spectators involved. Both outlets report the league is threatening bans for those who threw items at the referee. While the accounts align on the central incident—Klein targeted with projectiles during the match exit—coverage focuses differently on the league’s response, with one outlet characterizing it as an open investigation and potential banning, and the other framing it as action over “referee abuse.”
