LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
'Hard to stomach': Andrew Johns blasts NRL over disgusting tackle
Rugby league legend Andrew Johns has launched a scathing attack on the NRL, slamming them for their handling of one of the most brutal tackles of the season.
The incident in question saw Roosters center Junior Pauga copping a four-match ban from the match review committee for a sickening hit on Canterbury's Connor Tracey.
In the dying minutes of the Roosters' 26-8 victory over the Bulldogs on Saturday night, Pauga unleashed a swinging arm that connected with Tracey's head, leaving spectators cringing at the sight.
Even the most die-hard fans and seasoned analysts couldn't make excuses for such a reckless and dangerous play.
"That's a direct shot to the noggin, mate.
He's done for the night, no two ways about it.
That swinging arm...fair dinkum, that's a shocker," remarked former player Michael Ennis, while commentator Warren Smith expressed genuine concern for Tracey's well-being on the pitch.
In a sport where toughness is revered and respect for one's opponent is paramount, incidents like this take the shine off the game and tarnish its reputation.
The NRL must come down hard on such behavior to ensure the safety and integrity of the sport are upheld.