Sports
Mulitalo Receives One-Game Ban After Fiji Match Incident
By AAP
New Zealand’s Rugby League World Cup semi‑final campaign was hit by a disciplinary setback when winger Ronaldo Mulitalo was handed a one‑game ban. The Kiwis’ 78‑0 victory over Fiji on Saturday at the Gold Coast ended with Mulitalo being sent off for a shoulder charge on Ronald Philitoga in the 52nd minute. The incident sparked a melee between the teams, during which Fiji’s halfback Brandon Wakeham punched Mulitalo in the head, earning Wakeham a one‑game suspension as well. The judiciary, on Sunday, classified Mulitalo’s tackle as careless and charged him with a grade‑two offence. He will miss one match if he pleads early, meaning he could return for the grand final if New Zealand win their semi‑final against either Samoa or Tonga next Saturday in Newcastle. Mulitalo, who has scored three tries and is known for his work under the high ball, will be a notable absence for the Kiwis. Fiji, having been eliminated, will not be affected by Wakeham’s suspension.
Frequently asked questions
Why was Ronaldo Mulitalo banned for one game?
He was sent off for a shoulder charge on Ronald Philitoga, classified as a careless grade‑two offence by the judiciary.
What happened to Fiji’s Brandon Wakeham during the melee?
Wakeham punched Mulitalo in the head during the melee, earning a one‑game suspension.
Will Mulitalo miss the grand final?
He will miss one match if he pleads early, but could return for the grand final if New Zealand win their semi‑final.