Christian Tuipulotu of the Dragons
St George Illawarra Dragons winger Christian Tuipulotu finds himself in the spotlight after a contentious high tackle on Manly Sea Eagles’ Reuben Garrick during their recent clash. Despite the tackle resulting in Garrick’s Grade 1 concussion and subsequent removal from the game, Tuipulotu will avoid suspension.
The incident occurred in the first half, with Tuipulotu’s high contact leading to Garrick’s early exit from the match due to injury. Despite Manly’s depleted squad and Garrick’s departure, the Sea Eagles managed a remarkable victory that will be remembered as one of their bravest in club history.
Tuipulotu’s Grade 1 careless high tackle charge, his first such offense on record, carries a financial penalty. An early guilty plea will cost him $1000, while contesting the charge and losing would result in a $1500 fine following a judiciary hearing.
The Dragons’ next game in Round 17 against the Dolphins at Kogarah looms ahead after a bye, where Tuipulotu is eligible to play. However, his selection may be influenced by team considerations, especially since he was a late inclusion in the lineup due to an injury to Moses Suli during warm-ups.
Tuipulotu has until midday (AEST) on Tuesday to decide whether to accept the early guilty plea or contest the charge, with a potential hearing slated for Tuesday evening. As of now, no other hearings are scheduled for Tuesday, as all other players charged during Round 15 have accepted early guilty pleas.
