Avondale flanker Scott Haynes faces a heavy suspension when he fronts the Illawarra Rugby Union judiciary this week on a charge of kicking an opponent.
The Wombats slipped from first to second after going down 24-12 on their home ground to Shoalhaven in a rematch of last year's grand final teams.
But the game was marred by an ugly brawl that culminated with Haynes being sent off by referee Gary Howell.
The drama started with a punch-up between Shoalhaven's Mick Johnson and Avondale's James Patrick in the first half.
Johnson was dazed and bloodied on the ground after the altercation when he was allegedly kicked by Haynes. After hearing reports from both touch judges, Howell gave Haynes his marching orders.
It is believed the entire incident was captured by a WIN TV cameraman.
Shoalhaven coach Paul Mulready believes the incident made the reigning premiers even more determined to outplay the Wombats.
"The guys were really playing well and focused on putting together a good performance, and what took place really stirred the side and put even more fire in their bellies," he said.
"Avondale certainly have some good players but the club seems to lack leadership. It was great to win the physical battle as well as the tactical battle."
While the win lifted Shoalies from fourth to third, Mulready believes it strengthened their resolve to claim back-to-back titles.
He is confident the team will only improve as players return from injury over the next few weeks.
"I think there's an attitude among other clubs that Shoalhaven are on the slide, but the players know we've got guys to come back and we're still quite a formidable side with everybody on deck."
Meantime, Shamrocks stretched their unbeaten run to nine games with a 10-all draw with Engadine at Engadine Oval.
Shamrocks last tasted defeat on May 23 when they went down at home to Engadine. The Rocks remained in equal-fifth spot with University, who snared two valuable bonus points in their 31-27 road loss to Kiama.
"It was a fair result for both teams," Shamrocks coach Barry Jones said.
"To get a result up there, we'll take it and move on and get our heads down for our next match."
Tech Waratahs made the most of Avondale's loss, accounting for Camden 29-12 at Camden Rugby Park to re-claim top spot.
Table: Tech Waratahs 53, Avondale 52, Shoalhaven 42, Engadine 40, University 34, Shamrocks 34, Kiama 27, Camden 18, Vikings 6
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