The Match Review Committee (MRC) has handed charges to Cronulla Sharks winger Ronaldo Mulitalo and Penrith Panthers forward Liam Henry following incidents during Saturday’s Round 12 NRL matches, leaving both players facing suspensions.
Liam Henry (Panthers) received a Grade 2 charge for a crusher tackle on Newcastle Knights’ Fletcher Sharpe during Penrith’s heavy defeat at Carrington Park in Bathurst. With an early guilty plea, the forward will serve a two-match ban, missing clashes against the Parramatta Eels and Wests Tigers. If he contests the charge unsuccessfully, a third game will be added to his suspension.
The Panthers’ Round 15 bye means Henry could return against the New Zealand Warriors in Auckland if he accepts the penalty.
Ronaldo Mulitalo (Sharks) was cited for a late hit on Sydney Roosters’ Mark Nawaqanitawase in the later game, earning a Grade 2 charge. As a first offence on his 12-month record, he faces a one-match ban with an early plea or a two-game suspension if he challenges and loses. Cronulla’s upcoming bye spares him an immediate absence, but he would miss subsequent home games against the Warriors and St George Illawarra Dragons.
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Both players must submit their pleas by midday (AEST) Monday. Henry was the sole player reported in the Panthers-Knights match, while Mulitalo’s incident occurred during the Sharks’ narrow loss to the Roosters.
The Panthers, currently last on the ladder, and fifth-placed Sharks will await final decisions before finalizing their teams for upcoming rounds.
