Shaun Johnson criticizes Warriors fans after referee attack
Zero Tackle NRL • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 21, 2026, 1:33 AM
Last updated Sep 21, 2026

Following the New Zealand Warriors' two-point loss to the Newcastle Knights in the NRL finals, match officials experienced hostility from fans, who threw projectiles at them. Shaun Johnson defended the officiating, calling fan actions unacceptable and praising referee Ashley Klein's performance. Controversial officiating calls contributed to the fans' dissatisfaction, with key moments in the game's final minutes sparking debate. The Knights advanced to the preliminary finals against the Penrith Panthers.
- •Warriors lost to Knights, exiting the NRL finals.
- •Fans threw objects at officials post-match in protest.
- •Shaun Johnson defended referee Ashley Klein's performance.
- •Controversial calls influenced the final moments of the game.
- •Newcastle Knights will face Penrith Panthers in the preliminary finals.
- 1:33 AMZero Tackle NRL — Shaun Johnson whacks Warriors fans over referee attack
"Fans threw projectiles at the officials as they left the field.
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