NRL Match Review and Judiciary News – Round 11 Recap: 

- North Queensland Cowboys forward Reuben Cotter has dodged a Match Review Committee charge for his second-half sin bin against the Sydney Roosters, leaving him free to suit up for the State of Origin opener.

- Manly’s Lehi Hopoate has copped a Grade 2 contrary conduct charge after appearing to push the referee during the Sea Eagles' win over the Wests Tigers.

- Wests Tigers back Patrick Herbert is facing a two-match ban with an early guilty plea following a Grade 2 dangerous contact charge.

- Terrell May, Jock Madden, Tom Chester and Matt Lodge have all been hit with fines, with pleas due by midday AEST Monday.

Reuben Cotter has been spared by the Match Review Committee after his controversial sin bin against the Roosters, while Manly's Lehi Hopoate and Tigers winger Patrick Herbert face suspensions from the weekend's NRL action.

Cotter Walks Free Ahead of Origin

The Cowboys enforcer was given his marching orders for perceived off-the-ball contact on Roosters halfback Sam Walker during North Queensland's win at the weekend. 

The decision left coach Todd Payten fuming, with the mentor flagging post-match that he would seek answers from the NRL over the call.

The MRC has now vindicated Payten's stance, opting against laying a charge. The upshot? Cotter remains available for Queensland selection in the State of Origin opener – a major boost for the Maroons' forward pack as Billy Slater finalises his squad.

Hopoate and Herbert in Hot Water

It wasn't such welcome news at Brookvale or Concord. Manly's Lehi Hopoate is staring down a one-match ban after he appeared to push the referee, who tumbled to the turf, while chasing a kick in the Sea Eagles' victory over the Tigers. 

The Grade 2 contrary conduct charge will see him sidelined for one game with an early guilty plea or risk a second week on the sidelines if he challenges and loses at the judiciary.

Tigers’ utility Patrick Herbert has been slugged with a Grade 2 dangerous contact charge, copping a two-match suspension with an early guilty plea, or three weeks if he fights and loses. 

Herbert also faces a separate fine of $1,800 (early plea) or $2,500 (if unsuccessful at the judiciary) for a second dangerous contact offence.

Fines Flying Around the Competition

A handful of other players have been pinged in the wallet rather than the run-on team:

Terrell May – high tackle: $750 early plea / $1,000 contested

Jock Madden – high tackle: $750 early plea / $1,000 contested

Matt Lodge – high tackle: $750 early plea / $1,000 contested

Tom Chester – dangerous contact: $1,800 early plea / $2,500 contested

What Happens Next

All seven charges issued from the round must have their pleas lodged with the NRL judiciary by midday (AEST) on Monday. 

Expect most to take the early guilty plea route to minimise time on the sidelines, particularly with NRL ladder positions tightening and Origin selection looming large for the contenders in maroon and blue.

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