Lyon ref comments to come under scrutiny

Manly skipper Jamie Lyon could come under scrutiny from the NRL after making a pointed comment in the Sea Eagles’ win over South Sydney on Monday night that appeared to question the integrity of match officials.

Lyon has long had a reputation for constantly questioning referees and was at it again at Allianz Stadium in the concluding match of round 20 as Souths received a string of penalties.

“It seems like you are trying to get them back into the game, that’s what it seems like,” Lyon could be heard saying to referee Henry Perenara over the broadcaster’s Fox Sports audio.

The NRL has taken a hardline of criticism of referees over the past two seasons.

Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson earned a $40,000 fine for his verbal attack on referee Ben Cummins following the Tricolours Anzac Day defeat to St George Illawarra earlier this season.

Lyon’s remarks came as Souths were fighting their way back from an 18-0 halftime deficit.

The Rabbitohs had bridged the gap to six points and looked to have moved closer before a Joe Burgess try was controversially turned down by the bunker.

Manly’s 20-12 win keeps their faint finals hopes alive.

They are two wins behind eight-placed Penrith but face Newcastle and Parramatta in their next two matches.

Souths will miss the playoffs for the first time under coach Michael Maguire.

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