Brisbane have apologised to NRL rivals Manly after they were forced to take down a social media post and story on their website lauding the tackle that injured Tom Trbojevic as a "great play".
The tweet linked to an explanation why David Mead's tackle was within the rules when he controversially took out the Sea Eagles fullback in the 63rd minute of Saturday night's clash at Suncorp Stadium.
It also bore the hashtag #TrueStrength, a slogan of sponsors Optimum Nutrition.
Trbojevic suffered a syndesmosis injury to his left ankle and a medial ligament sprain to his left knee when Mead landed on him, ruling him out for six to eight weeks and ending his NSW State of Origin hopes.
The Broncos were roundly condemned on social media, with Trbojevic's teammate Darcy Lussick among those who criticised them with more than a hint of sarcasm.
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"Great tweet, well done to the social media department," Lussick tweeted.
Others described the tweet as "disgraceful", "appalling" and insensitive towards Trbojevic.
A Broncos spokesperson said the club was trying to outline the reasons why Mead had not been penalised after receiving multiple inquiries from supporters over the incident but recognised it came across poorly.
The Broncos also called Manly to apologise.
Mead was not penalised because the 'tackling in the air' rule offers protection to players only when the ball is caught on the full - not when it bounces first, as was the case with Trbojevic.
The Broncos scored off the play and took the lead before finishing up as 24-14 winners.
