Raiders fume over eye-gouge ban after Cowboy escapes with fine

Compare the pair. Josh McGuire was merely fined for an eye-gouge on Cameron Munster earlier this year but Raiders rookie Hudson Young will cop a five-week ban. Where is the consistency from the NRL match review committee?

• PART ONE: NSW Blues players with one cap

• JAIL OR NRL? Decision that saved NSW rookie

The NRL’s match review process is under fire with claims of double standards after rookie Canberra forward Hudson Young copped a five-match ban for an alleged eye-gouge.

This comes despite North Queensland’s Josh McGuire escaping with only a $3350 fine for what appeared to be a similar incident involving fellow Queenslander Cameron Munster earlier this season.

At the time the NRL claimed it only had two camera angles of the McGuire incident that were partially obstructed, which is why the match review committee apparently opted not to lay a more serious charge like the one levelled at Young.

Canberra forward Hudson Young is facing a long ban for an alleged eye-gouge on Canterbury's Aiden Tolman. Picture: Fox Sports

It is understood the Raiders were left confused after the comparisons were brought to their attention, which showed how Melbourne captain Cameron Smith had actually advised Munster on the field in front of the referee to “have a think about” making an official complaint, even though it was clear the claims centred on an alleged eye-gouge.

But the Raiders yesterday determined it was still no use fighting the charge and running the risk of Young being banned for seven games if found guilty at the judiciary.

Meanwhile, Canberra chief executive Don Furner yesterday cleared the air with Sam Burgess after Furner had hit out publicly at the South Sydney captain over comments Burgess made on Fox League about the latest incident.

Furner was initially angry after being told how Burgess had mentioned that Young rubbed his knuckles over Burgess’ face during their round 10 match. Furner was concerned Burgess’ comments may have influenced the match review panel.

Josh McGuire was fined more than $3000 earlier in the year after gouging Cameron Munster.

Burgess was adamant that was not his intention, and he also believes the five-to-seven week charge was way over the top, insisting a “slap on the wrist” might have been more appropriate.

“There is no way I am trying to get someone suspended,” Burgess said.

“In fact I am almost supportive of Hudson Young.

“The fact is the incident (between Burgess and Young) happened. I am on a commentary panel. I have to comment on it. I still believe there is nothing in the play. It is just a bit of inexperience.

“I can’t believe he has been given, what is it (five to seven weeks)? To (potentially) miss seven games of footy for that, we have to have a bit of common sense.”

Cameron Munster reacts after the eye-gouge incident in Townsville. Picture: Alix Sweeney

Burgess also said he didn’t agree Young should have received a 50 per cent loading for having a prior similar offence in the last two years that occurred while Young was playing NSW Cup.

“I don’t agree with the system,” Burgess added. “Look at the action. Has it caused any injury? It is just a little bit silly. Just give him a slap on the wrist and let’s all get on with it.”

Regardless, the Raiders are filthy at Young for putting himself in the situation that will cost the team at a time when they are struggling with injury and missing players through State of Origin.

There is every chance this could also have a huge impact on the rookie forward’s hopes of winning his place back in the NRL team given the depth of talent in the club.