Munster opens up grand final controversy

When asked if it is even possible to bite an opponent with a mouthguard, Munster replied: “No. I spoke to Paul Alamoti after the game, there was nothing bad.

“He said he felt pressure and I said I didn’t bite him. That’s footy… I don’t have to worry about anything.

“I’ve done a lot of crazy things in the game and raised my hand for it. But I can put my hand on my heart, there is absolutely nothing in it (in this)… Obviously 2018 was a great year for myself – until the grand finale.

“I raise my hand on certain things that I definitely do during the Games and I am a very honest person.

“I can absolutely put my hand on my heart on everything I’ve spoken about, and there was no malice or even trying to bite.

“So I’m quite disappointed, I’m trying to take that out of my game, all those nasty little incidents that I’ve obviously done over the years.

“I work very hard on things like that and when it comes out it’s disappointing.

“Unfortunately, I just have to let the judiciary decide, and I’ll have a case and we’ll go from there.”

Alamoti declined to comment further on the incident.

“What happens on the field stays on the field,” Alamoti said. “That’s all done, that’s in the back of my mind. I just want to celebrate.”

Asked if he harbored any ill will towards Munster, Alamoti said: “Absolutely not.”

Earlier this season, Dragons playmaker Kyle Flanagan was suspended for four weeks – ending his season – after being found guilty by the judiciary of biting Stephen Crichton.

A suspension could potentially cost Munster a Kangaroos jersey for the upcoming Pacific Championships. However, the Maroons lynchpin said a groin injury that has hampered him all season could ultimately rule him out.

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“After that performance tonight, I don’t think they’ll choose me as their mate,” he said.

“It is what it is. I’m going to talk to the physios, the doctors and the surgeon and see what’s best for me.

“I’ve done quite well but at the end of the day I have to make sure my body is right for the club and I can’t afford to go there and play.

“I love representing my country, don’t get me wrong, but Melbourne Storm pays the wages, pays me and I have to make sure I’m fit and ready to go for a big pre-season and whatever that looks like next year . .”