NRL 2020: Shaun Johnson breaks silence on Kevin Proctor ‘bite’

Shaun Johnson has opened up publicly about the divisive furore that has erupted after he accused a rival of biting him during a game.

Was it a bite or not?

Shaun Johnson has spoken publicly for the first time since accusing Kevin Proctor of biting him.

The Sharks playmaker complained Proctor bit him on the arm while being tackled in Cronulla’s win over Gold Coast on the weekend.

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The Titans star was sent off but has maintained his innocence, denying he did anything wrong and vowing to defend himself when he fronts the judiciary.

While Johnson initially blew up about the incident during the game, he quickly backtracked and at one stage told the referee he didn’t even want a penalty. Many have speculated he didn’t want to pursue the matter when he realised the alleged offender was his New Zealand teammate.

Johnson will act as a character witness to help Proctor’s defence as the 31-year-old tries to avoid a lengthy ban and the Sharks star took to Instagram on Tuesday afternoon to put forward his version of events.

At the time Johnson was certain Proctor “had a nibble” on his arm but after hearing the back-rower’s strenuous denials, believes the contact was not as serious as first thought.

“Time to clear the air and let you know where I stand on what happened during last week’s game,” Johnson wrote. “This is not an apology.

“Do I believe Kev had a nibble on my arm? At the time yes I did — otherwise I wouldn’t have reacted the way I did. Since then I have spoken to Kev and he’s told me he didn’t and I believe him.

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Rugby league is split on whether Proctor clamped down on Johnson’s arm.

“I’ve also had time to watch the footage — the same footage you’ve all seen and can see that maybe the force I had against his open mouth with my arm could have been the reason I felt what I did.

“In the heat of the moment I reacted the way I did and I can’t change that, no way did I think he would get sent from the field but I did think we’d get something for it. I hate that this has taken attention away from the fact it was Kev’s 250th first grade game and what an unreal player he has been for so long for both club and country.

“I’ll be supporting Kev at the judiciary tonight where I can, as I believe him being sent off and ultimately costing his team the game is big enough punishment.

“That’s where I stand, take what you want from it. I’m not here to please everyone and I know the ‘did he bite?’ debate has divided the rugby league community which is fine but I’ll remain honest & transparent to myself and those who follow me.

“Those who have sent messages of support through I really appreciate it & to those calling me snitch or a rat well hey maybe I am but all I’m thinking about is my team & winning a game of footy.”