Brad Arthur can't help but get dragged into his player's decisions after the head coach copped flak for allowing Ryan Matterson to accept a three-game suspension as opposed to a monetary penalty.

Matterson was charged for a crusher tackle in the grand final on Dylan Edwards, and given the option to either choose a monster $4,000 fine or miss Parramatta's opening three games of the season.

The one-time Blue didn't opt to open his wallet.

Currently earning a reported $600,000 per season, the fine equates to about three days' pay for the premiership-winning forward.

Meanwhile, the Eels lost Shaun Lane to injury during the pre-season, while fellow back-rowers Ray Stone, Isaiah Papali'i and Marata Niukore have all departed following the grand final loss. It's a decision that hasn't cost Matterson a cent but may have cost the Eels precious points, losing both opening matches by four.

NRL360'sย Paul Kent blasted the decision on television on Tuesday night.

โ€œIt was a dud decision by Ryan Matterson,โ€ Kent said on-air.

โ€œThe Parramatta Eels tried to address that and went back to the NRL and tried to get it reheard essentially to change his plea from a suspension to a fine.

โ€œUnfortunately it has really bitten the Eels because they've got injuries, they've been down on troops and really needed him.โ€

However, journalist Paul Crawley disputed Kent's claims and dragged Matterson's coach into proceedings.

โ€œToo bad, so sad,โ€ Crawley said.

โ€œWhy didn't the coach say โ€˜Mate you're going to pay the fine and that's the way it is, otherwise you can play reserve grade'.

โ€œHe's put them through a start to the season they didn't need. It was always going to be a tough start if you looked at their draw and who they lost, they needed him on the field.โ€

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 15: Ryan Matterson of the Eels celebrates scoring a try during the round 10 NRL match between the Sydney Roosters and the Parramatta Eels at Suncorp Stadium, on May 15, 2022, in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images)

Matterson will once again miss this week's contest, this time against Manly at 4 Pines Park, while the likes of Bryce Cartwright, Matt Doorey and J'maine Hopgood have filled the gaps during their back-to-back losses.

NRL360ย host Braith Anasta hit the nail on its head.

โ€œI cannot comprehend it, I really can't. It's a small price to pay for securing a few wins for your teammates.โ€