Josh Papalii Under Investigation Following Two Reports in Raiders Defeat

Raiders prop Josh Papalii may face disciplinary action from the NRL after being placed on report twice during his side’s 30-20 defeat to the Cowboys.

The incidents involved high shots against Sam McIntyre on both occasions.

Papalii’s first offence occurred in the 26th minute, as his forearm made contact with McIntyre’s head just after the latter had entered the field.

“His team’s under pressure, he’s come off the bench and is trying to make an impact,” Cooper Cronk commented on Fox League.

“He was second into contact. I don’t think that was flush on the chin, so I believe that’s acceptable.”

A minute later, he was involved in another incident, charging into the tackle with significant force.

“This one seems a bit more aggressive. Initially, it looks like he made solid contact, but upon closer inspection, I believe the impact was around the chest, and the referee deemed it low and it rose as he went through,” Cronk noted.

Mal Meninga suggested that a mere “small fine” is anticipated for Papalii.

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Furthermore, Raiders teammate Joseph Tapine was also reported for a chicken-wing tackle, while Cowboys player Jeramiah Nanai received a similar penalty for a high shot.

North Queensland entered the contest seeking their first victory, but the Raiders struck first, leading 8-0 after getting a penalty goal and a try from Tapine.

The Cowboys responded with Jake Clifford scoring twice and Murray Taulagi adding another, putting them ahead 16-8 at the break.

After the half-time interval, North Queensland scored first with Robert Derby crossing over.

However, the Raiders aimed to finish strong, and Coen Hess’ sin-binning for a blatant offside in the 56th minute revitalised their hopes.

Canberra winger Savelio Tamale scored during this period, adding to the excitement, but Cowboys half Tom Dearden sealed the match with a remarkable solo try five minutes from full-time.