The Broncos have received positive news following their impressive victory over Canberra on Friday night as Pat Carrigan has only been fined for a high tackle that led to his temporary dismissal. The State of Origin representative was sin-binned for ten minutes after making high contact with Corey Horsburgh during the Broncos' 34-30 triumph.
Though Horsburgh fell into the tackle, Carrigan made significant contact with his head. Given that Carrigan had two Grade 2 careless high tackle charges in the previous year, he faced a possible three-game suspension if the match review committee levied another penalty on Saturday. However, he was only charged with a Grade 1 offense, resulting in an $1800 fine instead. Last year, he received a one-game suspension during the finals and another two-game ban in April. A Grade 2 charge on Saturday would have sidelined him for three games, jeopardizing his remaining NRL season and World Cup participation.
Carrigan's fine ensures he stays eligible for the Kangaroos with just two games left in the NRL regular season. Adam Reynolds will retire after the season, likely paving the way for Carrigan to captain the Broncos in 2027, alongside potential leaders like Billy Walters, Reece Walsh, and newcomer Mitch Barnett.
This fortunate outcome adds to a rare bright moment for the Broncos amid a challenging season. Michael Maguire's team rallied from a 30-14 deficit in the second half, stunning Canberra and spoiling Josh Papalii's farewell. The victory places the Broncos three points above the last-placed Dragons, making it nearly impossible for them to claim the wooden spoon. "We've been through a bit of a period where they've had to really stick together," Maguire remarked about his players. "To see the boys defend through a long period in that second half shows the team I know I've got."
Canberra coach Ricky Stuart commented, "I know how much effort they put into wanting to do it for Josh (Papalii), but it's disappointing. Not to dampen the mood, but that's not good enough. When you get to that lead, we should be winning those games."