Full Breakdown
Nathan Cleary cleared to play despite foot injury and dangerous-contact charge
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Injury, charge and eligibility
Penrith Panthers’ star Nathan Cleary injured his right foot while kicking the match-winning field goal in the Panthers’ 19-12 victory over the Sydney Roosters at CommBank Stadium on Sunday. He limped from the 68-minute mark but continued playing and later declined to take the conversion attempt. Scans of the foot are scheduled for Monday, and the match-review committee has issued a grade-one dangerous-contact charge for Cleary’s tackle on Roosters playmaker Hugo Savala just before halftime. The charge carries a $1,000 fine if Cleary pleads guilty, but it does not trigger a suspension, leaving him eligible for Penrith’s preliminary-final match next weekend.
Background & Context
The incident follows a pattern of high-profile tackles involving Cleary. Coach Ivan Cleary noted that a similar challenge was made on Matt Burton (“Burto”) last season, describing the angle as “wrong” but acknowledging the intent to make a play. The Panthers’ medical staff were consulted after the foot injury, and Cleary opted to have teammate Dyl Edwards take the conversion to avoid risking his kicking ability.
Official Statements & Responses
The match-review committee confirmed the grade-one charge and the $1,000 penalty.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I just copped a little bump on the foot,” — Nathan Cleary, coach
- “It was a pretty important kick, so I just wanted Dyl [Edwards] to take it. I wasn’t sure how it would hold up goal-kicking. It was just precautionary.” — Coach Ivan Cleary
What’s Next
Penrith will host the winner of the Warriors-Knights clash at Accor Stadium in the preliminary final. Halves option Jack Cogger is returning from suspension, providing additional depth for the Panthers as they prepare for the upcoming match.