Ivan Cleary cops huge fine over 'deplorable' post-match comment
Penrith coach Ivan Cleary has been hit with a $20,000 fine for claiming Canberra were “managed” back into their NRL clash, with chairman Peter V'landys labelling his comments "deplorable".
NRL bosses met on Monday to discuss Cleary's comments and hit the Panthers coach hard after V'landys labelled them among the most disappointing things he'd seen while in charge.
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The Panthers held on to win 28-12, but Cleary was left confused over several second-half calls on Saturday that went in the Raiders' favour.
Cleary's words have left V'landys furious, warning the NRL would not stand for the integrity of any of their employees being questioned.
"I think his comments were deplorable," V'landys told AAP.
"There has to be a financial deterrent for it. You can't question people's integrity, no matter what.
"What he did yesterday is one of the most disappointing things I have seen while chairman.
"This was straight to the integrity of the referee. To say he managed it to bring the other team in is deplorable.
"If anyone thinks the NRL is going to tolerate their employees being abused like that, they've got something coming."
On Monday, the NRL issued Cleary with a breach notice for his claims against match officials, which could result in a $20,000 fine.
Acting chief executive Andrew Abdo backed V'Landys' stance.
"I am disappointed that a person in a leadership position within our game has made comments that question the integrity of our officials," Abdo said.
"Our leaders should be professional and set the standard for our game.
"Comments like this will not be tolerated."
Peter V’landys slams ‘despicable’ Cleary comments
Cleary was previously employed as a consultant for the NRL to referees, between his first time in charge of Penrith and the Wests Tigers.
His outburst did not carry the same ferocity as some in the past, but V'landys was worried over the example it set for junior coaches and parents.
"This one in particular was despicable. It was beyond someone of his standing to say something like that," V'landys said.
"The (comments) are so ridiculously stupid. Under no circumstances is the NRL going to tolerate abuse towards referees and especially their integrity.
"How about setting an example to other coaches or parents that are sitting on the sideline watching their kids play?
"Has he thought about the human element of the person he just made that allegation about?
"How would he like it for anyone to question his integrity?
"To do that as an elite coach gives me no words."
