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Manly v Storm brawl could face $100,000 in fines

Following the clash between Manly and Melbourne Storm on Friday night, the NRL will closely examine at least 12 players and officials in a remarkable aftermath.

It has come to light that 10 players and two trainers are set to be reviewed – and potentially charged – by the NRL match review committee for their contentious involvement in the brawl at Brookvale.

The committee will evaluate Manly players Glenn Stewart, Brett Stewart, Kieran Foran, Michael Robertson, and Darcy Lussick alongside Melbourne Storm athletes Ryan Hinchcliffe, Adam Blair, Sisa Waqa, Bryan Norrie, and Jaiman Lowe.

This development coincides with Glenn Stewart’s statement on Sunday, expressing, “If I could take those few hectic minutes back I would. It was a stupid thing to do and I want to apologise for my actions.”

Should they be cited, the Stewart brothers, Foran, Robertson, Lussick, Blair, and Hinchcliffe may face striking charges, while Waqa, Norrie, and Lowe could face contrary conduct charges for departing the interchange bench to engage in the altercation.

Even if only half of the 12 are charged, it would be significant. Both clubs are also at risk of receiving $100,000 fines from the NRL. Ironically, one of the teams stands to receive a $100,000 cheque next week for securing the minor premiership.

The NRL is also investigating whether Storm trainer Adrian Jimenez infringed upon any rules by entering the fray. Meanwhile, Manly official Graham Jackson was not part of the skirmish, but the NRL will determine if he entered the field unlawfully to assist Glenn Stewart.

While the match review committee lacks the authority to charge club officials, disciplinary measures can be initiated by NRL management.

Nathan McGuirk, NRL director of football operations, indicated that his organization has requested reports from multiple sources including the Brookvale Oval ground manager, interchange official, referees, and touch judges.

The match review committee will be equipped with eight different camera angles to analyze the incident. Blair refuted claims of instigating the second altercation, asserting “let’s get it on.”

Storm officials reconvened on Sunday afternoon to further investigate the incident. McGuirk noted, “We are requesting all available footage including ‘camera one,’ which is eagle cam.

“We have also sought reports from all officials present during the incident. These will be submitted to the match review committee and are crucial in addressing any operational violations. Clubs are required to adhere to the rules, and failure to do so may result in penalties.”

by Buford Balony

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