A controversial last-play call that ended with Manly forward Addin Fonua-Blake sent off, could result in a long spell on the sideline for the former Kiwis prop.
Trailing 14-12 with time up, Manly winger Tavita Funa broke down the right touchline, placing a well-weighted grubber kick to the Newcastle in-goal, with a handful of players competing for the ball.
Knights hooker Andrew McCullough grounded the ball, but referee Grant Atkins referred the call to the video referee, as it appeared Funa had been taken out in the melee.
Bunker official Jared Maxwell overlooked an obvious push in the back by Knights centre Bradman Best, ruling no penalty offence had occurred, and the game was over.
That decision sparked outrage from Manly players, including Fonua-Blake, whom Atkins sent from the field for calling him a "f***ing retard".
Captain Daly Cherry-Evans continued the protest, asking for clarification on why the push was deemed a fair collision, but Atkins stood by his bunker official and shooed the players from the field.
Fonua-Blake will likely be charged with contrary conduct and could cop a three-week suspension, depending on the offence's grading.
After trailing 14-6, the Sea Eagles dominated the second half, but couldn't find the match-winning play, committing several handling errors in attacking positions.
Fonua-Blake sought out Atkins following the match to apologise for his outburst.
"Referees have a very tough job and we all need to respect their decisions, even when we may not agree with them," said the Tongan international.
"I should not have let my emotions get the better of me and I am very sorry for the comments I made.
"I'd also like to offer my sincere apology to anyone offended by the regrettable language that I used. I let myself and my club down.
"That is not who I am or what this club stands for."
Knights star playmaker Kalyn Ponga is also under a cloud, after leaving the field with a serious concussion.
The fullback fell awkwardly when contesting a high ball with Manly hooker Dany Levi late in the match.
The NZ-bred Kangaroos international hit his head hard on the playing surface and was down for several minutes, before being assisted off the park.
