LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Roosters coach Trent Robinson expressed his frustration and anger towards Jared Waerea-Hargreaves after the prop was banned from the NRL finals due to his ill-discipline.
Waerea-Hargreaves received a seven-week ban for two separate incidents during the team's round 26 defeat against the Wests Tigers.
He accepted a three-game ban for a headbutt on Stefano Utoikamanu but unsuccessfully attempted to downgrade his dangerous contact charge for a high shot on Api Koroisau.
As a result, Waerea-Hargreaves will not be able to participate in the finals series and will also miss a significant portion of the 2024 season.
The length of his ban in 2024 depends on the number of games the Roosters play in 2023 and whether end-of-season Tests for New Zealand are included.
The Roosters were particularly frustrated by the timing of Waerea-Hargreaves' hit on Koroisau, as it occurred late in the game when victory was already secured.
The absence of their most experienced player will be felt in the upcoming must-win match against South Sydney, which will determine their fate in the finals.
Robinson admitted his anger towards Waerea-Hargreaves for letting the team down in such a crucial game.