3 minute read

Sydney Roosters centre Joey Manu has copped a one-week NRL ban and will miss the grand final rematch against Melbourne on Friday.

Sydney Roosters centre Joey Manu has been ruled out of the NRL grand final rematch against Melbourne after being found guilty of dangerous contact at the tribunal on Tuesday night.

New Zealand international Manu was charged with a crusher tackle on Cronulla winger Sione Katoa and pleaded not guilty, as he was already looking at a week out due to carry-over points.

Manu was given a one-game suspension, meaning the premiers will be forced into a backline reshuffle ahead of their blockbuster clash with the Storm on Good Friday.

Winger Brett Morris could return from a knee injury in place of Matt Ikavalu and utility Mitchell Aubusson would be a likely option for the centres.

Manly prop Addin Fonua-Blake was also found guilty at the tribunal after being charged with a careless high tackle on Newcastle's Mitchell Pearce. He was handed a two-match NRL ban.

Fonua-Blake was sin-binned for the high shot and the Tongan prop had already missed one game this season through suspension. He was facing a two-game suspension regardless of his tribunal plea.

Manly coach Des Hasler conceded after the game the New Zealand and Tongan dual international deserved to be sent to the sin bin.

Fonua-Blake will miss Manly's clashes against the Dragons and Raiders.