LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a blow to the Sea Eagles' forward pack, Toafofoa Sipley could be forced to miss his side's crucial opening three matches of the new season due to a Grade 2 Crusher Tackle charge.
This incident occurred during their Pre-Season Challenge clash against the Sydney Roosters, resulting in Dominic Young being hospitalized.
With Sipley now facing the scrutiny of the NRL's Match Review, his time on the sidelines seems imminent.
As this is his second offense, the Sea Eagles prop is set for a hefty three-game suspension, even with an early guilty plea.
However, if he chooses to challenge the charge at the Judiciary and fails, the ban could extend to four matches.
This would deal a significant blow to Manly's chances in the early stages of the season, especially with tough opponents like South Sydney, the Sydney Roosters, and Parramatta on the horizon.
It seems the Sea Eagles will need their other forwards to step up and fill the void left by Sipley's absence.