NRL Judiciary Report: Mitchell Moses Cops Two-Game Ban; Trio Fined
Parramatta Eels star halfback Mitchell Moses has been hit with a two-game suspension following a heated clash in Round 24 of the NRL season — a blow that further deepens the Eels’ growing on-field crisis as they fight to keep their faint finals hopes alive.
The NRL Judiciary handed down its decision late Monday night after reviewing Moses’ Grade Two Dangerous Contact charge stemming from a high shot on Wests Tigers fullback Jahream Bula during Parramatta’s 30–18 loss at CommBank Stadium. The tackle, which occurred midway through the second half, was deemed reckless and careless, leaving Bula shaken and sparking immediate outrage from Tigers players on the field.
Moses, who has been a cornerstone of the Eels’ attack this season, entered an early guilty plea in a bid to avoid a longer ban. The plea means he will miss crucial upcoming matches against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and the Newcastle Knights, two games that could decide Parramatta’s season fate.
The suspension couldn’t have come at a worse time for the struggling Eels, who sit on the edge of the top eight after an inconsistent campaign. The loss of their chief playmaker and goalkicker adds yet another headache for head coach Brad Arthur, who is already under immense pressure following a string of poor defensive performances and criticism over team structure.
NRL Head of Football, Graham Annesley, addressed the decision in a press briefing, stating:
> “The judiciary found that Mitchell’s contact was unnecessary and carried a level of risk that could not be ignored. While there was no malicious intent, the duty of care to the opposition player remains paramount.”
Moses’ record — previously clean this season — helped reduce what could have been a three-match ban. However, his absence will still have major repercussions for the Eels, who historically struggle without him. The team has lost 10 of their past 11 games played without Moses in the lineup, underlining his importance both as a leader and tactical organiser.
Meanwhile, three other players were hit with fines after a fiery weekend across the league.
James Fisher-Harris (Penrith Panthers) was slapped with a $3,000 fine for contrary conduct following a late push on a referee’s assistant during the Panthers’ clash with the Broncos.
Joseph Manu (Sydney Roosters) received a $1,500 fine for a high tackle deemed careless but not severe enough to warrant suspension.
Nelson Asofa-Solomona (Melbourne Storm) was fined $1,800 for a crusher tackle incident in his team’s win over the Sharks.
All three accepted early pleas and avoided time on the sidelines, though the NRL reiterated its stance on maintaining strict standards around player safety and referee respect.
For the Eels, however, Moses’ absence looms large. The playmaker’s combination with five-eighth Dylan Brown has been one of the few positives this season, but Brown will now shoulder full creative responsibility. Captain Clint Gutherson is expected to take on additional kicking duties, while backup half Jakob Arthur may be recalled to fill the gap.
With two must-win games ahead, Parramatta’s season hangs in the balance. The judiciary’s verdict serves as a harsh reminder of the fine line between aggression and recklessness — and leaves the Eels scrambling once again to survive without
their most influential star.
