North Queensland Cowboys head coach Todd Payten has been issued a 'final warning' from the NRL after his comments at the Cowboys round ten post-match press conference.
Payten highlighted several instances of supposed blunders by the match officials in his side's 30-all draw against the Panthers.
"Murray Taulagi got a penalty where a bloke fell into his chest and then Viliami Vailea less than five minutes later got his head taken off," he said.
"It was right in front of the touch judge, there was no call there and that was wrong."
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The warning made in a press release by the league recognised a pattern in the 46-year-old's behaviour dating back to 2020.
As the New Zealand Warrior's interim head coach, Payten got himself in some hot water over pointed comments made at match officials after a round nine loss to the Titans.
"The NRL has issued Cowboys coach Todd Payten with a final warning for repeated and consistent criticism of NRL Match Officials," the NRL statement read.
"The final warning relates to comments made by Mr Payten following Round 10 of the 2025 NRL Telstra Premiership and as far back as 2020.
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"Mr Payten has been reminded of his obligations under the NRL Rules and Code of Conduct as well as his general responsibility as a sporting leader to set an appropriate example to grassroots and junior participants across the broader rugby league community.
"All Rugby League participants are reminded to respect referees and Match Officials who perform a vital and integral role within the game."