Knights Star Avoids Suspension for ‘Clear Trip’ as Charge Exacerbates Sea Eagles’ Misery

The struggling Knights have received a fortunate break as Phoenix Crossland will not face suspension for tripping an opponent during Sunday’s match.

The Kiwi hooker was sin-binned for the incident in the second half of a closely contested game against the Bulldogs in Sydney.

With the Bulldogs leading 8-0 and the result hanging in the balance, Crossland extended his left leg in an effort to halt Bulldogs playmaker Toby Sexton from breaking through the defensive line.

“You can’t dispute that,” remarked NRL legend Cooper Cronk on Fox League.

“It’s an obvious trip.”

On Monday, the NRL’s match review committee issued Crossland a grade one dangerous contact charge.

Crossland has the option to accept a $1000 fine, which escalates to $1500 should he contest the charge and lose.

Meanwhile, Manly will be without forward Corey Waddell for a minimum of two games after he was charged with a high tackle.

Waddell struck Storm player Tyran Wishart during a match earlier on Sunday and is facing a two-game suspension or the possibility of three if he chooses to contest it.

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The Sea Eagles were thoroughly defeated by the Storm at Brookvale and are now at risk of losing another player.

Additionally, Jacob Preston, Kurt Mann, and Adam Elliott are all facing the possibility of fines for incidents that occurred during the Knights-Bulldogs clash.