Jordan Riki has been suspended for two games following a dangerous tackle on Cameron Murray. Meanwhile, Latrell Mitchell faces a $3000 fine for a contrary conduct charge if he pleads guilty, with a potential two-game ban if he contests the charge and loses.
Post-match, Cameron Murray downplayed the severity of the incident, stating, “I’m fine … he didn’t get me in the head or anything so I’m all good,” during Nine’s coverage. Broncos coach Kevin Walters expressed surprise that Riki was not sent off for the tackle. “I thought he was lucky to stay on the field,” Walters said. “He was a bit off tonight – he’ll be the first to admit it – and we’ll have a discussion with him. His effort was good, but he didn’t have his head in the right space. I don’t think he’ll get suspended. I thought a send off would have been sufficient.”
In the same match, the Rabbitohs defeated the Broncos, marking their third consecutive victory. The game was a crucial performance for Rabbitohs star Latrell Mitchell, who contributed a try, a try assist, several high kicks, and a stint in the Sin Bin, all highlighting his potential to make an impact in the upcoming State of Origin II at the MCG. His teammates, Keon Koloamatangi and captain Cameron Murray, also boosted their chances for Blues selection, with Cody Walker solidifying his position after transitioning from five-eighth to halfback.
The Broncos, however, are experiencing a slump and risk dropping out of the Top 8 if upcoming results are unfavorable. Coach Kevin Walters hopes his representative players can return promptly and reinforce their position in the standings.
Entering the game with confidence from two consecutive wins, the Rabbitohs started strong. Damien Cook scored the first try 12 minutes in after a dummy half run. Cody Walker then set up Keaon Koloamatangi for the second try with a deft kick, followed by Latrell Mitchell scoring close to the line, bringing the score to 18-0 within 23 minutes.
Brisbane sought a turnaround when Souths’ Richie Kennar was sent to the Sin Bin for a high tackle on Selwyn Cobbo. Utilizing their numerical advantage, Brisbane’s Tristan Sailor set up Ezra Mam for a try, but it was disallowed due to a forward pass, keeping the Rabbitohs ahead 18-0 at halftime.
Latrell Mitchell continued to impress after the break with a precise pass to Alex Johnston, who scored the fourth try for South Sydney, extending the lead to 22-0. The match saw a critical moment when Cameron Murray was tackled without the ball by Jordan Riki, leading to Mitchell confronting Riki. Both players were subsequently sent to the Sin Bin, and Murray underwent a head injury assessment.
After returning, the Broncos managed to score their first try with Deine Mariner touching down in the corner, reducing the deficit to 22-6 after Kotoni Staggs’ conversion. Mariner scored again later in the match following a kick by Ezra Mam, but it was only a consolation as the Broncos’ poor completion rate hindered their comeback, allowing the Rabbitohs to secure a deserved victory.
South Sydney now anticipates how many of their players will be selected for the Blues squad before facing Manly at Accor Stadium in Round 16 next Saturday. The Broncos, also expecting several players in Origin, benefit from a bye round next week.
