KENNY Edwards will be rubbed out for six to eight weeks as Parramatta and the NRL integrity unit required one last day to finalise his domestic violence punishment.
The Eels confirmed they would officially hand down their penalty on Friday.
While Edwards is certain to be suspended for six to eight weeks, the Eels must now settle on a suitable figure they can fine their rampaging forward, as well as agree on the best path for rehabilitation.
Edwards’ teammates offered their support as he remained stood down from the club on the eve of their latest campaign.
Neither the Eels nor the NRL wanted another off-field drama after last year’s disastrous campaign.
“I definitely feel for Kenny, he’s a teammate of mine, and he knows we’re definitely here for him,’’ said Corey Norman, the Eels halfback who copped an eight-week suspension at the end of last season for a drugs possession charge.
Kaysa Pritchard, the teammate involved in a urine sample swap with Edwards in 2015 — which led to Edwards serving a nine-month suspension — told Sports Confidential: “I love Kenny. I don’t want to say too much about what’s going on, but I hope he’s good and we see him back soon.’’
Edwards pleaded guilty to common assault in Parramatta court on Monday after he sprayed water in the face of former partner, Madison Campbell, then poured raspberry vodka over her and her bed.
Kenny Edwards leaves Parramatta Local Court.Magistrate Theo Tsavdaridis said while there was no physical violence, the December 11 act was “demeaning’’.
The NRL did not have to be reminded it was Edwards’ third off-field offence, including an assault on the Gold Coast in 2014.
Parramatta’s previous management had threatened to tear up the contract of Edwards if he stepped out of line, but the Eels’ new hierarchy has no intention of adopting the extreme measure.
Either way, not having Edwards for the first six to eight rounds will be a huge blow for coach Brad Arthur and Parramatta supporters.
SEMI TO BUILD FRENCH CONNECTION
SEMI Radradra was caught by surprise when Ben Barba signed a rich deal with Toulon, but is looking forward to striking up a bond with him as soon as he links with the French rugby powerhouse.
“Playing with Ben will be good, I’m looking forward to it,’’ big Semi said. “I only found out the news he signed with Toulon when everybody else found out. I haven’t spoken to him since. He’s a very talented player, so I’m happy to play alongside him.’’
Radradra backed himself to pick up on the local lingo fairly quickly.
“I’m a quick learner,’’ he said with a smile.
Radradra was the only player to not wear a Parramatta playing shirt or singlet during Thursday’s open media day, opting for a black muscle shirt. He explained he had already showered and the players were given the option.
Simona is looking at a life ban after a string of bets were uncovered, including alleged bets involving opposition players.
The corporate bookies who took bets on Simona to be first tryscorer and score multiple tries in games were not the same bookies who accepted the alleged bets on rival players to score tries.
COULD David Nofoaluma become an Eel? Parramatta have identified the Tigers flyer as a perfect replacement for Semi Radradra. With the Tigers over the salary cap and Radradra still to front court again, Nofoaluma’s move could be fast-tracked.
Replies
Harsh and entirely political. I don't get how Edwards could get 6+ weeks and yet Paulo is only serving a 1 match ban after actually assaulting someone. Hard to believe it's because of his previous incidents. He copped a 9 month suspension for the urine swap so it's hard to believe it's mostly loading. Complete bullshit.
Agree mate, its a joke
And Brett when have you ever disagreed with the NRL?
No matter what the topic is they are just in your eyes. Sure you don't work for the pricks.
WHAT I DONT AGREE WITH IS THE INCONSISTENT PUNISHMENT DISHED OUT BY THE NRL..
-
1
-
2
-
3
-
4
-
5
of 13 Next