In the aftermath of Thursday’s victory over the Eels, South Sydney Rabbitohs centre Richie Kennar has been charged with a Grade 1 Careless High Tackle. The incident, which took place in the 24th minute of the match at CommBank Stadium, involved Kennar’s tackle on Shaun Lane. Due to the nature of the offence, Kennar is facing a fine of $1800 if he accepts an early guilty plea. However, should he choose to contest the charge and is subsequently found guilty at the judiciary, the fine will increase to $2500. This charge marks Kennar’s second offence of this kind, contributing to the severity of the penalty.
Meanwhile, Dolphins utility Kurt Donoghoe has received a three-match suspension following his Grade 2 Careless High Tackle on Dragons’ Francis Molo during their Round 17 encounter. The incident occurred in the 65th minute at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium and resulted in Donoghoe being sent to the sin bin. The Dolphins struggled throughout the match, ultimately succumbing to a 26-6 defeat.
Donoghoe’s suspension comes as a result of his third offence of this nature, leading to a harsher penalty. He will be sidelined until the Dolphins’ clash with the Roosters in Round 22, leaving the team without a key utility player for the next three matches.
Both Kennar and Donoghoe’s incidents highlight the ongoing emphasis on player safety and the strict enforcement of rules regarding high tackles. As the season progresses, teams will need to be increasingly vigilant to avoid such costly penalties and suspensions.