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Scott Bailey

Tigers lodge formal complaint over call

Wests Tigers officials are demanding answers from the NRL after they suffered a controversial loss. (Scott Radford-Chisholm/AAP PHOTOS) (AAP)

Wests Tigers have launched an official complaint to the NRL over Sunday's captain's challenge call that cost them victory against North Queensland.

In a strongly-worded statement on Monday morning, the Tigers stopped short of demanding being awarded the two points after the 27-26 loss to the Cowboys in Townsville.

However CEO Justin Pascoe was adamant the NRL had clearly got the call wrong, despite claims from the league the correct process was followed in the match-deciding decision.

Down 26-25 with one second to play, the Cowboys claimed Kyle Feldt was escorted off a short kick off and obstructed from reclaiming the ball.

No penalty was blown on-field, however Cowboys captain Chad Townsend mounted his case to referee Chris Buttler before the challenge was allowed.

Ordinarily, a captain can only challenge calls decisions are made by the referee and force a stoppage in play, such as the call of a knock-on or penalty.

However the NRL has claimed that the Cowboys were able to challenge the referee's soft whistle to end the game, arguing that their had been a foul committed on the play.

But that response has not satisfied the Tigers.

"We believe the officials got it wrong, plain and simple," Pascoe said.

"That decision has cost us victory and we want answers.

"Our players worked their backsides off all night to celebrate Jimmy's 300th game, and they are to be applauded for their efforts.

"I know officials also work hard to get it right, but this in our opinion was just so wrong."

The NRL are due to review the escort call itself on Monday, which has also been queried.

The league's head of football Graham Annesley is due to front the media at 2.30pm (AEST) as part of his weekly briefing.

"I have spoken to a number of very experienced players, former players, media commentators, and our own coaching staff, and everyone agrees it was the wrong call," Pascoe said.

"I'm not here to bash officials, I know they are doing their best, but the bunker is there to avoid 'howlers'.

"We would like an explanation from the NRL, and our members and fans deserve that."

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