LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
NRL fans were left in disbelief after Soni Luke, the Penrith Panthers hooker, escaped punishment for a "disgusting" act reminiscent of the infamous John Hopoate scandal.
The Panthers had already suffered a blow with the loss of Jarome Luai to a significant shoulder injury, and their hopes of winning the minor premiership were severely dented after a disastrous night on Thursday, losing 32-18 to the Eels.
The defeat handed the Broncos a golden opportunity to snatch the minor premiership.
During the game, Luai dislocated his shoulder, ruling him out until deep into the finals.
However, the concerns for the Panthers didn't end there.
On Friday, the NRL hit Luke with a 'concerning act notice' for his actions on the field.
In a play reminiscent of Hopoate's scandalous behavior, Luke was seen seemingly putting his finger near the backside of Parramatta forward J'maine Hopgood.
Hopgood, who had previously played with Luke in reserve grade at Penrith, reacted in surprise, kicking his legs out after the incident.
While Luke was reprimanded by officials, he was not fined or suspended, leaving NRL fans questioning why he wasn't punished for his actions.
The match review committee issued a concerning act notice to the Panthers following Luke's behavior, but no further disciplinary action was taken.
This decision drew comparisons to Hopoate's disgraceful act in 2001, where he received a 12-game suspension for his "disgusting, violent, offensive behavior."
The NRL's decision not to suspend or fine Luke has left fans disappointed and frustrated.
Many believe that such actions should not be tolerated in the game and that players should face appropriate consequences for their behavior.
The incident has sparked a debate about the NRL's disciplinary procedures and whether they are consistent in addressing such incidents.
The Panthers will now have to regroup and focus on their upcoming games without Luai, while also grappling with the controversy surrounding Luke's actions.
It remains to be seen how this incident will impact the team's performance and their chances in the finals.
The NRL will undoubtedly face pressure to review their decision and provide clarity on what constitutes acceptable behavior on the field.