Samoa captain Paulo faces suspension risk over illegal shoulder charge
Paulo was put on report for a banned shoulder charge during the Rugby League World Cup semi-final.
Samoa captain Junior Paulo was cited for an illegal shoulder charge in the World Cup semi-final on Sunday. Paulo hit Tonga's Dallin Watene-Zelezniak hard from a blind spot with his shoulder.
Shoulder charges are banned in rugby league. Referee Adam Gee awarded a penalty and placed Paulo on report instead of immediate punishment.
Broadcasters warned Paulo could face suspension that would keep him out of the next match. Watene-Zelezniak recovered and nearly scored, though his try was ruled out for a foot on the line.
- Junior Paulo
- Player cited
- Dallin Watene-Zelezniak
- Opponent hit
- Rugby League World Cup semi-final
- Competition
- First 10 minutes
- Time in match
Why it mattersPaulo's potential suspension could affect Samoa's chances in the World Cup semi-final against Tonga.
AustraliaAustralian rugby league fans follow the World Cup semi-finals closely; Paulo's potential ban affects Samoa's line-up for next week's match.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
