http://www.sportal.com.au/league/news/nrl-premiership/odonnell-slams-match-review-committee-248996
The NRL's aversion to freedom of speech has a fresh test case after Penrith forward Kyle O'Donnell slammed the match review committee for charging his brother Luke with a dangerous throw.
The Roosters' O'Donnell will miss at least three games after being hit with a grade three charge for his 'cartwheel' tackle on Tigers centre Tim Simona, prompting Kyle to turn on the NRL.
"I'm sick of seeing my brother unfairly treated by 'officials'. Hasn't done a damn thing wrong all year and is still treated this way," Kyle tweeted.
Tell me how he got penalised when Keith Galloway took a swing at him?Isnt that a sin bin offence these days?Rules for some and not 4 others!
— Kyle O'Donnell (@KyleOD1) August 20, 2013
O'Donnell drew parallels between his brother's incident and Jeff Lima's controversial leg twist on Anthony Watmough, which resulted in just a one-week ban.
"Why are some players treated differently to others? The consistency of the match review committee absolutely stinks," Kyle wrote.
"1 week for INTENTIONALLY trying to hurt someone and 3-5 for an accidentally putting someone in a dangerous position which did not result in injury.
"This is something that boils my blood."
NRL officials are likely to take a dim view of O'Donnell's comments, especially as the Roosters are yet to enter a plea.
He may now face a fine or official censure, even though he is currently playing for Penrith's feeder club Windsor.
Players, coaches and officials are forbidden from commenting on judiciary matters for fear of prejudicing cases.
Toovey walked a fine line in suggesting Lima's act was 'suspicious'.