Cronulla Sharks star William Kennedy is facing a one-match ban after being hit with a grade two contrary conduct charge for colliding with referee Adam Gee in the dominant win over the Tigers on Friday night.
Kennedy was once again one of Cronulla’s best players as they laid on ten tries in a good fashioned 58-6 hiding at Shark Park.
But they’re facing the prospect of being without the star fullback for the club’s round 21 clash against the Cowboys in Townsville, following the Sharks’ bye next round.
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Kennedy was following in support up the middle after Kayal Iro made a break on the left edge in the 13th minute.
William Kennedy collides with referee Adam Gee. Nine
The fullback was shaping up as the main support player and in prime position to score a a long-range try when he crashed into Gee, who fell to the ground but quickly regained his feet.
Play continued without Gee sanctioning the fullback on the field, who just shrugged after the incident.
Fox Sports commentator and Broncos great Corey Parker, said the moment was completely “accidental”.
Kennedy is set to spend one match on the sidelines but could face two, if he unsuccessfully fights the charge at the NRL Judiciary.
Teammate and prop Tom Hazelton was also charged with a grade one crusher tackle on Wests Tigers forward Fonua Pole and faces a fine.