NRL champions South Sydney Rabbitohs downed the Canterbury Bulldogs 18-17 on Good Friday, but the game was marred by fans launching objects at the referees.
The Bulldogs fans turned on the game's officials after a late penalty helped the Rabbitohs win the round-five fixture – a replay of last season's Grand Final.
With the Bulldogs leading 17-16 in the dying stages at ANZ Stadium, a speculative field-goal attempt from Adam Reynolds went wide and short of the target.
However, Bulldogs captain James Graham's attempt to charge it down saw him cannon into Reynolds' standing leg - causing an injury to the Rabbitohs star.
Graham was penalised for dangerous play after the video referee assessed the situation and the Rabbitohs were awarded a penalty goal attempt 10 metres out directly in front of the posts – the correct decision, despite fury from Bulldogs players and fans alike.
David Klemmer was sin-binned for his protestations with Graham also lambasting the on-field referee.
The scenes worsened at the siren, with objects raining on the officials as they left the field and a member of the crew falling to the ground after appearing to be hit by a bottle.
Bulldogs chief executive Raelene Castle tweeted: "Even though we lost it is unacceptable for fans to throw bottles!! We will work to find the culprits! @NRL_Bulldogs #proudtobeabulldog".
A heavy police presence was on hand to see the Rabbitohs players from the field.