For the first time ever the NRL has allowed a journalist inside the much maligned NRL bunker during game-play, and what the Surry Hills Times observed explains some of the decision-making.
The latest was a controversial try that was awarded to Roosters debutant Sean O’Sullivan, which fans have savaged the bunker over with replays showing O’Sullivan made a loose carry.
The Surry Hills Times spent the weekend inside the bunker with the match officials who recognised they were in a highly-pressurised situation and as such saw the importance of releasing the pressure valve from time to time.
Interestingly that pressure was being released during matches.
In order to stay relaxed, match officials were openly viewing pornography on up to eight screens at a time instead of concentrating on crucial moments in matches they were at the time meant to be governing.
On Super Saturday what started with an Esky and a case of beer quickly turned into cocktails followed by suspicious delivery from a bloke called “Robbo”. Shortly afterwards spirits seemed much higher than usual. Then just prior to the late match on Saturday night a DJ arrived followed by a string of dancers scantily-clad.
A full blown all night rave party in downtown Redfern where the controversial bunker is situated ensued. And I must say we had a great time.
“It helps us relax and stay focused it’s an intense working environment so part of the trick is to remove yourself from that pressure in any way you can. Paradoxically that’s what helps us stay on the ball.”
However it must be said the hilarious antics of these officials who are ostensibly adjudicating live games goes a long way to explaining the seemingly baffling decisions that have the set the game under a cloud of controversy for years.
In other instances some officials were conducting Skype calls to friends overseas.
“To be honest some of these games can get really boring,” one official admitted. “Any distractions is welcome relief.”
A bit of light pornography, the odd Skype call two mates overseas a bit of Facebook or Insta. It’s all harmless fun and to be honest it keeps us in the chair.” said another, before falling off it.
Contrary to what you’d think we discovered a group of individuals tightly bonded and in extremely high spirits. This is a group who without question love their job.
“We love coming to work,” one said. “It’s a great bunch of blokes who love what they do. We’ve certainly developed some strong friendships over our time spent in the bunker.”
sht.com can reveal that from its outset NRL Bunker officials were distracted.
