Panthers want decision on Tyrone May’s sex-tape punishment early

Penrith are holding out hope Tyrone May will be available to start the 2019 season despite the young Panther being the latest NRL player to become involved in a sex-tape scandal.

• Gutted Gutho vows to repay Eels fans
• Griffin’s verdict: Big question mark over Eels roster

Penrith are holding out hope Tyrone May will be available to start the 2019 season despite the young Panther being the latest NRL player to become involved in a sex-tape scandal.

The Panthers have asked the NRL to expedite a decision on May’s punishment over two leaked videos this week to help the shattered player’s welfare and mental health.

May could be interviewed by the NRL’s integrity unit as early as Monday, just 48 hours after the governing body first saw the nine-month old footage.

Penrith are hoping the NRL make an early decision on Tyrone May’s punishment. (AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts)

MORE NRL NEWS

KENT: Finally, Greenberg gets it right

SCANDAL: NRL rocked by another sex tape allegation

The 22-year-old was withdrawn from Penrith’s 20-0 trial loss to Parramatta on Saturday, but the Panthers hope the actions of a deeply remorseful May will only attract a fine and he will be available for the round-one match against the Eels at Panthers Stadium.

Penrith believe a drawn-out decision could further impact on May’s wellbeing, and, according to one well-placed source, want a resolution so he can “get on with his life and learn from it.”

The NRL has indicated it will deal with the matter promptly.

“We will conduct the inquiry with Penrith this week and look to conclude it as soon as practical,” a spokesman said.

Sex-tapes of May became public this week. Picture: Brett Costello

There is no suggestion of any criminal wrongdoing by anyone in the video.

Club officials throughout the NRL continue to be told there are potentially another dozen lewd videos that have been filmed involving players.

Penrith will consider their own punishment for May, but will not act until the NRL makes its decision.

Canterbury prop Dylan Napa was fined around $70,000 for his involvement in sex videos dating back six years.

May, who missed a large chunk of last season with an ACL injury, was in line for a bench spot for round one to support NSW Origin halves Nathan Cleary and James Maloney. He is considered a ready-made replacement for Maloney, 32, when the veteran retires.

On the Panthers’ 20-0 trial loss to the Eels, Penrith’s general manager Phil Gould said his side “ran out of energy.”

“Great trial performance by the Parramatta Eels. Comfortable winners. Controlled ball well. Grew in confidence and momentum as game progressed. Put together some nice attacking,” Gould tweeted.

“Dominated. Panthers conceded too penalties, did too much tackling, and in the end, ran out of energy.