Sharks star cops bizarre NRL ban for referee collision that cost possible try

Sharks star William Kennedy is facing a one-match ban following a bizarre incident in Friday night’s dominant victory over the lowly Tigers.

William Kennedy ran into the back of Adam Gee.

Sharks star William Kennedy is facing a one-match ban after being slapped with a grade 2 contrary conduct charge by the NRL Judiciary following a bizarre incident in Friday night’s dominant victory over the lowly Tigers.

In the 13th minute, Kennedy ran into the back of referee Adam Gee as he attempted to support a breakaway play from centre Kayal Iro.

With the Tigers in disarray defensively, the fullback had a golden opportunity to score a long-range try when he crashed into the referee, who tumbled to the ground but quickly bounced back to his feet.

Play continued without pause, but Kennedy was denied a possible chance to score.

Will Kennedy has been hit with a grade two contrary conduct charge for this. Facing one week for backing up in support. I assume they’ll fight this and win in a case that should last about five minutes pic.twitter.com/C1maI2vhyI

— Martin Gabor (@MartinJGabor) July 12, 2024

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“Oh Kennedy and the referee have collided and that cost Kennedy. He was looming in back up and could have scored a try,” Dan Ginnane said in commentary on Fox League.

“Poor old Adam Gee has worn one, but he’s tough the ref. He’s straight back up and no pause in play.”

“There was an opportunity if Kennedy was able to receive the ball. Straight into the back of Adam Gee,” Corey Parker added. “It was completely accidental.”

Despite Parker’s declaration it was accidental, Kennedy is set to spend a match on the sidelines – or two, if he unsuccessfully fights the charge at the NRL Judiciary.

William Kennedy ran into the back of Adam Gee.

Kennedy did not appear to remonstrate with Gee after the incident, simply looking at the referee and shrugging in his direction.

Rugby league reporter Scott Pryde wrote on social media: “Would imagine this will be the easiest judiciary challenge in history.”

Originally published as Sharks star cops bizarre NRL ban for referee collision that cost possible try