Kalyn Ponga fined $1,000 for high tackle in grand final loss
Kalyn Ponga was fined $1,000 for a high tackle in Sunday's NRL grand final loss to the Roosters.
In the 25th minute against Sydney, Ponga's shoulder caught Radley high. Referee Adam Gee placed him on report but did not send him to the sin bin, a decision that angered the Roosters.
Ponga copped a grade one careless high tackle charge and a $1,000 fine with an early plea, or risks $1,500 if he fights it. Roosters captain James Tedesco was audible complaining about the call, saying 'if we're consistent with the rules, that's a shoulder to the head'.
Four minutes after the incident, Ponga scored a try that proved crucial in Newcastle's victory. This marks another high tackle controversy for the Knights star, who was sent off for a similar offence five months earlier in an Origin match.
- $1,000
- Fine amount
- 25th minute
- Incident timing
- Adam Gee
- Referee
- James Tedesco
- Roosters captain
Why it mattersThe decision shows inconsistency in how the NRL enforces high tackle rules, frustrating teams who feel penalties are applied unevenly in crucial moments.
AustraliaFor NRL fans and players, this highlights growing debate over tackle law enforcement and fairness in the game's biggest matches.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
Open this story in InSnip →
