Cronulla legend Paul Gallen says fatigue isn’t a factor in the current game due to the amount of penalties being dished out by the referees.

Speaking on Channel Nine, Gallen said club officials were also using the HIA bin to their advantage.

“No, I wasn’t tired (against Melbourne),” Gallen said.

“We brought in the eight-interchange rule to bring fatigue in the game – to give the halfbacks and hookers a chance around the ruck.

“There’s eight interchanges, there’s 20 penalties being blown, teams are taking advantage of the HIA rule, so fatigue is not a factor at the moment.

“I’m the oldest player in the competition and I can say after four rounds I have not had to push myself that next level once.

“It’s a lot easier, a lot easier.”