NRL Judiciary Round 19: Izack Tago banned for hip-drop tackle

Mark Molyneux

NRL Judiciary Round 19: Izack Tago banned for hip-drop tackle image

Sam Walker has avoided a charge from the Match Review Committee despite being sent to the sin-bin for what was deemed to be "dangerous contact" on David Klemmer. 

The Sydney Roosters halfback was featuring in the NRL for the first time this season after recovering firstly from an ACL injury and then a broken thumb.  

However, he had a mixed time of it against St George Illawarra as he was sent to the bin in the first half, before returning to the fold to boot a field goal and set up a try for Billy Smith during his side's 31-24 win. 

Meanwhile, Izack Tago will spend some time on the sidelines after being charged for a hip-drop tackle during Penrith's win over Parramatta. The centre avoided any scrutiny during the game but did not avoid focus from the MRC. 

The Sporting News provides all the latest NRL Judiciary news from Round 19 below. 

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Izack Tago banned for hip-drop tackle

Tago has accepted a one-match ban after being charged for dangerous contact on Kitione Kautoga. 

The Panthers star wasn't penalised for the tackle during the game that left the Eels backrower out of action for the rest of the contest. 

However, he will now miss his side's Round 20 clash against South Sydney after taking the early guilty plea.  for the grade two charge. 

Sam Walker avoids charge while Jacob Kiraz is cited 

On a busy Saturday, five players did draw the attention of the MRC. 

Walker's teammate, Mark Nawaqanitawase, has been cited for making dangerous contact on Valentine Holmes, although the cross-code star can escape with a financial penalty by taking an early guilty plea. 

Tyrell Sloan and Sione Finau also came under focus within the game as the Dragons' wingers were also charged with making dangerous contact to opposition players in the first stanza. 

Meanwhile, Jacob Kiraz has avoided a suspension after being put on report from a shoulder charge on Braidon Burns during Canterbury's win over North Queensland. 

Finally, Phoenix Crossland is facing a hefty fine after being charged with dangerous contact on Jahrome Hughes. 

If the Newcastle utility opts to fight the charge and is found guilty, he could be sidelined for two matches due to a poor disciplinary record. 

Full Round 19 NRL Judiciary charge list, results

PlayerTeamChargeOpponentEarly pleaGuilty at panel
Tyson SmoothyBroncosCrusher Tackle (Grade 1)Phillip Sami $1,000$1,500
Izack TagoPanthers Dangerous Contact (Grade 2)Kitione Kautoga1 match2 matches
Leka HalasimaWarriorsHigh Tackle - Careless (Grade 1)Charlie Staines$1,000$1,500
Jacob KirazBulldogsShoulder Charge (Grade 1)Braidon Burns$1,000$1,500
Mark NawaqanitawaseRoostersDangerous Contact (Grade 1)Valentine Holmes$1,000$1,500
Sione Finau DragonsDangerous Contact - Tripping (Grade 1)James Tedesco$1,000$1,500
Tyrell SloanDragonsDangerous Contact (Grade 1)Lindsay Collins$1,000$1,500
Phoenix CrosslandKnightsDangerous Contact (Grade 1)Jahrome Hughes$3,0002 matches

Mark Molyneux

Mark Molyneux is a freelance writer covering the NRL and UFC for Sporting News Australia. He has previously worked in the music industry and as a teacher around the world.