Is this Rugby’s first own try?

Rugby fans were left scratching their heads after a baffling decision by the TMO during today’s NRC match between the Sydney Stars and the North Harbour Rays.

The Sydney Stars were attacking on the try line when Rays prop Mitch Lewis took the ball and planted it for a team-mate to pick up.

Referee Ian Smith was unable to see through the melee of bodies and referred to the Television Match Official.

Lewis was stunned when the call came back to award a try.

Online reaction was swift, with rugby fans left baffled by what looks to be the first incidence of an ‘own try’.

@JudgeRugby @seanny202 @BuildcorpNRC Yep, that's a first ever. Totally bizarre. Just witnessed history.

— ENJAY Aus (@RugbySheep) October 16, 2014

#NRC2014 Question, in the stats, who will they award that try to? The guy on the other team? #SYDvRAY

— just some chick (@kopkl) October 16, 2014

How on earth is that a try?!? #bungle #SYDvRAY

— Brett McKay (@BMcSport) October 16, 2014

The Sydney Stars went on to win the match 49-40.

Hat tip: Fox Sports