Canberra enforcer Corey Horsburgh is staring at a $3000 fine after being cited for a shoulder charge in the Raiders’ clash with Manly, but he’s unlikely to miss a game if he takes the early guilty plea.
The incident came in the 74th minute at GIO Stadium when Horsburgh collided with Sea Eagles lock Jazz Tevaga.
Placed on report at the time, the forward has since been slapped with a Grade 1 charge, his second offence of this type in 2025. If he challenges the ruling at the judiciary and loses, the penalty would jump to a two-match suspension.
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Rule offers players a choice
Under NRL regulations, players outside their club’s Top 30 can swap a monetary fine for a one-match ban. Horsburgh, a key member of Canberra’s squad, is on the primary list and will need to decide whether to cop the fine or fight the charge.
The 27-year-old has already been in the judiciary spotlight this season, having faced sanctions for dangerous contact in Rounds 4 and 12. His latest charge adds to a busy year for the Raiders’ discipline sheet, which includes fines or suspensions for Joseph Tapine, Ethan Strange, Tom Starling and others.
Should Horsburgh accept the early plea, he will be free to face Canberra’s next opponents as Ricky Stuart’s side continue their push towards the finals.