Liam Henry and Ronaldo Mulitalo Face Suspensions After Costly Tackles
Two players are facing bans following dangerous tackles during Saturday’s NRL matches. Penrith’s Liam Henry is set for a two-match suspension after a clear-cut crusher tackle on Fletcher Sharpe during the Panthers’ 25–6 defeat to Newcastle. The tackle, deemed a Grade 2 offence, was exactly the type of act the rule targets. Henry can accept two weeks or challenge the charge and risk a third.
For context, some fans may recall Jacob Preston receiving a four-week ban for a less severe tackle in Round 9 — that was his third offence and he unsuccessfully contested it.
Cronulla winger Ronaldo Mulitalo is also in hot water after a high shot on Roosters winger Mark Nawaqanitawase during the build-up to Hugo Savala’s try. Mulitalo can take a one-week ban or challenge the charge. With Sam Stonestreet and Sione Katoa already unavailable, the Sharks’ backline depth could be further stretched.
Focus Shifts to Sunday Blockbuster: Warriors v Raiders
This afternoon, all eyes are on one standout matchup as the Warriors and Raiders face off with second spot on the ladder up for grabs.
Despite State of Origin selections, both teams are close to full strength. The Warriors have won five straight but are without co-captains James Fisher-Harris (suspension) and Mitch Barnett (Origin). Ali Leiataua returns to the centres, shifting Kurt Capewell back to his preferred back-row spot. Bunty Afoa and Marata Niukore will start as props.
For Canberra, Hudson Young’s Origin selection leaves a gap, with Zac Hosking stepping in and Simi Sasagi earning his first start of the season. All eyes will also be on debutant Noah Martin, a 20-year-old bench forward with a standout mullet.
Warriors’ Winning Run Faces Real Test
Although the Warriors have strung together five wins and climbed to second on the table, their modest +5 points differential reflects how tight their victories have been. Six of their eight wins were decided by single digits, while their two losses — to the Raiders and Storm — were heavy.
This clash is their biggest test since their 42–14 drubbing in Melbourne six weeks ago. Recent wins have come against less consistent teams like the Broncos, Knights, Cowboys, Dragons, and Dolphins. Today’s matchup against a strong, largely unaffected Raiders squad could be a true measure of where the Warriors stand.
A Tale of Two Meetings — Months and Miles Apart
This is the second time these teams meet this season — the first came in Las Vegas, where Canberra dominated 30–8. That performance cast early doubts on the Warriors’ season, especially halfback Luke Metcalf, who looked shaky after switching roles. Now, Metcalf sits atop the Dally M leaderboard, and the Warriors are flying high, in stark contrast to their opening-round form.
Stay Tuned for More Live Updates
We’ll continue to follow the Warriors v Raiders showdown, along with any breaking news across the rugby league world. You can follow the match via the live blog, track stats in the ScoreCentre, or listen in via live radio.
