Eels Second-Rower Kelma Tuilagi Faces Three-Game Suspension Following Shoulder Charge in Opening Tackle

Parramatta Eels second-rower Kelma Tuilagi has received a three-match suspension after being reported for his first tackle of the match against the Wests Tigers.

Immediately following the kick-off, Tigers prop Terrell May charged at the Eels defence and was met with a significant impact from three Eels players.

At the time, no penalty was awarded; however, Tuilagi was placed on report three minutes later when the Eels were preparing to take a penalty goal for an unrelated incident.

The match review committee has subsequently charged Tuilagi with a grade two shoulder charge.

This marks Tuilagi’s second offence, and he faces a three-match suspension if he pleads guilty. Should he contest the charge and be found guilty at the judiciary, he risks a four-match ban.

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In the match, Parramatta secured a victory, winning 36-22, their second win of the season.

Sunia Turuva has also been fined $1800 for contrary conduct after he threw Ryley Smith to the ground, which instigated a brawl. Turuva received a sin-bin for this action.

Additionally, Mitchell Moses was fined $1000 for a high tackle on Luke Laulilii during the 67th minute. Although Moses’ tackle was a try-saver, it was ruled as just a penalty.