Panthers and Cowboys Trainers Slapped with Suspensions in NRL “Sideline Scandal”
In a shocking twist to what was already a dramatic Round 10 NRL clash between the Penrith Panthers and the North Queensland Cowboys, both clubs have been slapped with fines and suspensions following a controversial incident involving their trainers. The National Rugby League (NRL) has issued breach notices to the Panthers and Cowboys after their trainers were caught illegally interfering with play by squirting water onto the football during the match, which ended in a gripping 30-30 draw.
Video footage from the game captured the moment when Panthers trainer Shane Elford and Cowboys trainer Mitchell Dunn were seen spraying water directly onto the ball during a pause in play prior to a kick restart. The act, which has now been labeled an “illegal sideline tactic,” immediately raised eyebrows, prompting an NRL investigation into potential misconduct.
In response to the findings, the NRL has proposed a $10,000 fine for each club. Additionally, both Elford and Dunn have been handed two-match suspensions—though one match of each ban is suspended, effectively making it a one-game enforced ban unless further infractions occur. The breach notices assert that the trainers’ actions contravened clear rules regarding the role and conduct of support staff during games.
The NRL’s statement emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of play, especially in high-stakes moments. “The spraying of water onto the ball by trainers is not permitted and interferes with the normal flow and fairness of the game,” the league stated. “Trainers are reminded that their role is limited strictly to player welfare and communication of tactical instructions when appropriate. Actions that influence the ball or playing conditions are not acceptable.”
Both clubs have five business days to respond to the breach notices, after which final penalties will be confirmed. While neither Penrith nor North Queensland has issued an official statement as of yet, internal reviews are expected, and further disciplinary measures could follow depending on the clubs’ responses.
This latest controversy adds to growing scrutiny around the conduct of support staff and the broader enforcement of match-day protocols. With the NRL aiming to crack down on any actions that might compromise the fairness of play, this incident may set a precedent for how such behavior is penalized moving forward.
As for the fans, reactions have been mixed. Some view the incident as a minor infraction blown out of proportion, while others see it as a blatant attempt to manipulate the game’s flow. Either way, the controversy has added another layer of drama to an already fiercely competitive season.
With the trainers set to miss upcoming fixtures and both clubs facing financial penalties, the NRL has made it clear that even off-field personnel will be held accountable for upholding the rules of the game. The investigation is ongoing, but the message is simple: in the NRL, even water can lead to fire.
