NZ Warriors' thrilling golden-point NRL victory over North Queensland has been marred by an apparent homophobic slur caught on TV coverage of the match.
Veteran half Shaun Johnson slotted a field goal in extra time for a 25-24 win over the Cowboys at Redcliffe, extending their winning streak to three games, after opening the season with two losses.
But their joy has been tainted by an outburst against Cowboys winger Kyle Feldt, who was heard being described as a "f****t" for trying to milk a penalty midway through the second half.
The incident resulted in a penalty against Marcelo Montoya for a high tackle on former Warriors teammate Pete Hiku, slotted by Valentine Holmes to give North Queensland a 24-18 lead. After his hit on Hiku, Montoya chased the loose ball and also collared Feldt, who received treatment for a shoulder injury.
An NRL spokesperson has told AAP that they are "aware and investigating".
If the player is identified, he could be charged with contrary conduct and Wests Tigers star Mitch Moses was banned two games in 2014 for a similar incident.
"I havne't heard from the NRL as yet, and I'm only hearing what the media are telling me and asking me," says Warriors chief executive Cam George. "If there's something they want to investigate, there's a process and we'll work with them.
"That kind of commentary is not condoned at our footy club - it never has been and never will be, so we'll work with the approriate personnel to understand that situation that's being reported."
