The NRL has slapped Panthers trainer Shane Elford with a breach notice following a bizarre incident in Townsville last weekend.
Elford, who doubles as Penrith’s General Manager of Rugby League, was spotted spraying the ball with water prior to the kick-off of Golden Point in the clash between Penrith and North Queensland.
Footage later emerged of the Cowboys doing the same thing – and they too have been hit with a breach notice.
The breach notices propose a fine for each Club of $10,000, and a two-match suspension for each trainer involved – with one match suspended.
“During the match, trainers from both Clubs were observed squirting liquid onto the football prior to kick restarts of play, in contravention of the NRL Rules,” the NRL said in a statement.
“The NRL has also reminded all Clubs about the limitations of the roles of trainers on match days. Any action, other than those permitted under the NRL Rules, may be considered a breach liable to sanctions.”
The incident involving Elford wasn’t noticed on-field, but referee Todd Smith did spot one of the Cowboys’ infractions and ordered a new ball be brought onto the field.
Both Clubs will have five days to respond to the breach notices.
Troy Dodds
Troy Dodds is the Weekender's Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.