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Breaking News: Furious Andrew Johns Slams NRL After Karl Lawton’s Dangerous Tackle on Siua Wong Sparks Just Two-Game Suspension, Calls for Urgent Rule Overhaul
Rugby league legend Andrew Johns has launched a scathing attack on the NRL judiciary system following the decision to suspend Cowboys hooker Karl Lawton for just two matches after a dangerous tackle that left Roosters back-rower Siua Wong shaken during Sunday’s clash.
The incident, which occurred in the second half of the game, saw Lawton lift and drive Wong in a manner that many, including Johns, considered reckless and highly dangerous. While the match review committee acted swiftly to hand down a two-game suspension, Johns was left unimpressed – questioning both the severity of the punishment and the league’s commitment to player safety.
“I’m fuming,” Johns said during the post-match broadcast. “That kind of tackle has no place in the modern game. We’re talking about protecting players, especially around the head and neck, and yet this only gets two weeks? It’s not good enough.”
The eighth Immortal didn’t stop there, urging the NRL to consider a full overhaul of its disciplinary and tackling policies to better reflect the importance of long-term player welfare.
“We’ve got young guys copping hits that could affect their careers, even their lives down the track,” he continued. “If we’re serious about concussion protocols and safety, we need to start handing out stronger penalties to send a real message.”
Lawton’s absence will be a blow for the Cowboys as they navigate a crucial stretch of the season. However, the bigger talking point remains the NRL’s response to incidents like this – and with Johns’ powerful voice added to the chorus of concern, pressure is mounting on league officials to take firmer action.
As debate around dangerous tackles continues to intensify, all eyes will be on the NRL to see whether Johns’ call for reform will spark meaningful change.
