In a dramatic turn of events during the South Sydney Rabbitohs vs. Canterbury Bulldogs clash on Good Friday, NRL superstar Latrell Mitchell found himself at the center of controversy. His sliding effort left Josh Addo-Carr concussed and removed from the game, raising questions about player safety and the impact of such collisions.
The Incident
During the match, Mitchell rushed across to make a cover tackle, colliding with Addo-Carr in a way that left the Bulldogs winger face-first onto the ground. The collision occurred just before half-time, as Isaiah Tass tackled Addo-Carr over the sideline. Referee Gerard Sutton deemed the contact “incidental,” but the match review committee saw it differently.
The Charge
Mitchell received a grade-one dangerous contact charge from the match review committee. Despite immediate concern for his close friend, Mitchell’s hip collected Addo-Carr’s head at an awkward angle, resulting in the concussion. The challenge was deemed dangerous and worthy of a charge, but Mitchell won’t miss any matches due to the incident.
The Penalty
Mitchell faces a fine of up to $2,500 if he chooses to fight the charge and loses. However, an early guilty plea would reduce the fine to $1,800. The incident highlights the delicate balance between aggressive play and player safety in professional rugby league.
Impact on Addo-Carr
Addo-Carr, who had recently returned from a shoulder injury, was seen walking around on the sideline after half-time. Unfortunately, he will miss the next Friday clash with the Sydney Roosters due to the concussion.
Canterbury’s Kurtis Morrin Also in Trouble
In the same match, Bulldogs interchange prop Kurtis Morrin faces a three-game ban for a dangerous throw on Cameron Murray. Morrin was sin-binned during the game after awkwardly lifting the Souths captain into a dangerous position. His suspension could significantly impact Canterbury’s upcoming matches.
