LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Manly prop Toafofoa Sipley has been sent straight to the judiciary after his hip drop tackle on Dragons winger Mat Feagai during Thursday night's match.
The incident resulted in a sin-binning for Sipley, and scans later revealed that Feagai had sustained serious injuries, including an ankle fracture and high-grade syndesmosis injury, which will require two to three months of recovery time.
This direct referral to the judiciary is unusual, but not unheard of in cases involving dangerous tackles.
The ABC reported that Sipley now faces the possibility of a significant suspension for his actions.
The severity of Feagai's injuries and the potential for long-term consequences highlight the dangerous nature of the hip drop tackle.
Marcus Pearcy, one of the hosts on the Big Sports Breakfast, criticized the tackle as a dangerous play that has no place in the game.
He stated, "It's a shocking and dangerous tackle, write him off for a few weeks." The harsh consequences for Feagai and the apparent recklessness of the tackle have drawn attention to the importance of player safety in rugby league.
Despite the unusual nature of a direct referral to the judiciary for a hip drop tackle, Sipley must now face the consequences of his actions.
The NRL's crackdown on dangerous tackles and the prioritization of player safety mean that such incidents are taken seriously.
The NRL Judiciary Committee will now assess the tackle and determine the appropriate punishment for Sipley.
Feagai's injuries serve as a reminder of the potential harm that can result from dangerous tackles.
The incident serves as a warning to players about the need to prioritize safety on the field and to eliminate dangerous plays that can cause serious harm to opponents.
The NRL continues its efforts to protect players and ensure a safe playing environment for all participants.
The outcome of this case will send a clear message about the consequences of dangerous tackles in the game of rugby league.