Cowboys coach Todd Payten couldn’t resist a cheeky dig at Mitchell Moses for diving in the crucial obstruction call that denied his side a last minute match winning try in the 19-18 loss to the Eels.
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The Eels led 19-18 in the final minute when Jake Clifford went through a gaping hole to score the match winning try, which was awarded by the on-field referee.
However, the Bunker ruled Moses was denied a shot at making a tackle after Jeremiah Nanai stopped in the line and collided with the Eels halfback.
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Payten originally revealed he thought the try ruling was the right call.
“I thought the on-field ref got it right,” Payten said with a smile.
“I’ve seen Mitchell dive over the years plenty of times, so…”
However, pressed further, Payten admitted the Bunker’s call to overturn Clifford’s try was correct.
“Look, I always think about putting myself on the other side, and I think it was the right call in the end,” Payten said.
“That was in jest. I know Mitchell, he’s cheeky. He’s been doing it for a long time. We had some opportunities down that right corner, we missed.
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“Just got the execution wrong in that play, so they are the little details that can cost you.”
Payten was disappointed with the loss, but proud of the improvements his side made, particularly with their fight and commitment.
“A bit of rollercoaster, disappointed obviously,” Payten said of the loss.
“18-8 down really pleased with how we responded there and got to 18-all and fought really hard to the end, but just fell short.”
Payten praised returning star Jason Taumalolo and Coen Hess, who have given the Cowboys more steel in defence against the Eels.
“Very glad to have Jase (Taumalolo) back after a long lay-off,” Payten said.
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“I thought he was really good in that first half. Had some moments in that second half too. Just gives everyone confidence.
“He is hard to handle and he can pass the ball too, which we’ve kind of missed, and Cohen Hess has been playing good footy now for six, seven weeks. Real handful, full of energy and an important player for us.”
Payten was surprised Hess wasn’t picked for a recall to the Maroons Origin side this season after Queensland lost game one.
“He had an ACL last year, so that’s probably why,” Payten said when asked where Hess’ best form has been.
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“I was surprised that he wasn’t considered for the Origin this year, considering they made some changes after the first game.
“Thought he’d be perfectly suited to come off the bench in that arena, just hell and fury for 15 to 20 minutes.
“His athletic ability and the way he carries the ball would be perfectly suited, so if he continues this form for another 12 months, he should be in the mix.”
