Manly winger Jorge Taufua will be sacked if he drinks alcohol again this year, while young Canterbury forward Herman Ese'ese has been stood down by the club for drink driving.
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Taufua was whacked with a $10,000 fine, $5000 suspended, following his wild brawl in Sydney's CBD with Canterbury centre Jacob Loko on March 21. "I fully accept the sanctions and apologise for my actions," Taufua said. "I'm eager to repay the club, both on and off the field, for their support."
The Sea Eagles said in a statement that Taufua must not consume alcohol until December 31, with random testing optional from the club or the NRL. He must also complete an alcohol management course and was served with a four game pre-dated ban – meaning he will be eligible for selection next round.
Manly chief executive Joe Kelly described the incident as disappointing.
"The altercation Jorge was involved in was extremely disappointing and while I know he is remorseful for his actions, these sanctions are a necessary reminder to him of what the club expects from players, but also what the community expects from individuals," Kelly said. "As always, the Sea Eagles' welfare team will continue to work closely with Jorge to monitor his personal development. The measures put in place today have been determined in consultation with the NRL integrity unit."
Meanwhile, Bulldogs player Ese'ese, 20, was charged with mid-range drink driving in February. His hearing was earlier this month but when the NRL forward was a no-show, an arrest warrant was issued. Fairfax Media understands the Bulldogs were only told of the offence on Wednesday. He turned himself into Campsie police station and then appeared in Burwood court. He was fined $1000 and also suspended from driving for nine months.
The Bulldogs said they were working with the NRL integrity unit in regards to the matter. Ese'ese made his NRL debut last weekend against Manly.
