LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Melbourne Storm fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen was found not guilty of dangerous contact at the NRL judiciary in record time on Tuesday evening.
The incident occurred during a game against the Dolphins when Papenhuyzen was retrospectively placed on report for landing awkwardly on Averillo in an attempt to make a tackle.
The dangerous contact was not penalized during the game but was added to the charge sheet the following morning.
Papenhuyzen challenged the charge at the judiciary, where the panel quickly confirmed his innocence in just two minutes.
According to zerotackle.com, Papenhuyzen's verdict was reached swiftly, with the panel determining he was not guilty of dangerous contact.
The incident in question occurred in the 77th minute of the game against the Dolphins, where Papenhuyzen was seen landing awkwardly on Averillo while trying to make a tackle.
Despite the contact being placed on report at the next stoppage in play and later added to the charge sheet, Papenhuyzen successfully challenged the charge at the judiciary.
The quick decision by the panel highlights the lack of evidence supporting the dangerous contact charge against Papenhuyzen.
His lawyer was able to argue his case effectively, leading to a rapid verdict in his favor.
This outcome clears Papenhuyzen of any wrongdoing in the incident and allows him to continue playing without any suspension or penalty.
The Storm fullback can now focus on his upcoming games without the distraction of a pending judiciary case hanging over him.
Overall, Papenhuyzen's swift not guilty verdict at the judiciary reflects the confidence in his innocence and the lack of substantial evidence to support the dangerous contact charge against him.
His successful challenge allows him to move forward without any repercussions from the incident, ensuring he can continue contributing to the Melbourne Storm without any interruptions.