DOGS’ UNSUNG HERO COMES OF AGE

But that should not mean we ignore the bleeding obvious amid the biting controversy fallout that has surrounded the NRL’s perennial punching bag, Kyle Flanagan.

And that is how did Crichton’s nose end up in Flanagan’s mouth in the first place?

The answer is simple: Crichton forcibly put it there.

He pinned himself on top of Flanagan and absolutely pushed the boundaries after the tackle was completed, continually shoving his melon into his opponent’s face until finally his nose submerged into Flanagan’s mouth.

Flanagan clearly had no way of defending himself and obviously retaliated out of frustration.

Surely that must be taken into account when determining the punishment if the Dragons playmaker is found guilty of allegations of biting the Bulldogs skipper.

With many calling for a lengthy suspension for what is usually viewed as one of the ugliest acts of foul play in the game, this one has really split the public debate right down the middle in respect to who instigated what.

It will be interesting to see how the NRL judiciary view this as well.

Of course, Dragons coach Shane Flanagan has vehemently denied the allegations against his son with the matter now referred straight to the judiciary.

But as Mal Meninga, Cooper Cronk and Greg Alexander all said in Fox League’s post match coverage, the evidence was damning.

It appeared clear cut that Flanagan chomped down on Crichton’s nose, which appeared to stretch like a rubber band as he tried to drag it out of Flanagan’s mouth.

On what we’ve seen, this should be a slam dunk to determine if there was a bite or not.

But there is also no disputing Crichton was clearly the aggressor, and some former players will privately argue Crichton got what he deserved.

It might not be the politically correct thing to say today.

But put yourself in Flanagan’s boots.

If this happened on the street Flanagan would have a case for self-defence on that vision.

And you talk about cause and effect and how every action has a consequence.

If you don’t want to get your nose chomped, don’t push it in someone’s mouth.

DOGS’ UNSUNG HERO COMES OF AGE

It was a shame the biting allegation over-shadowed what was otherwise another inspired performance from the Bulldogs.

And what about the growing maturity of resurrected halfback Toby Sexton who has emerged as one of the unsung heroes of the 2024 NRL season.

Unwanted at the Titans previously, Sexton also had to fight his way back at the Bulldogs this year after spending the first 11 rounds in NSW Cup.

It’s no surprise the Bulldogs’ attack is firing on the back of the now 23-year-old’s continued improvement.

Sexton has a clever kicking game and can produce some classy moments that will make him a player to watch in the closing months of this season.