Match Review Committee Hands Down First Round 7 Charges
Clayton Faulalo and Coen Hess have been charged by the NRL Match Review Committee following Thursday night’s Round 7 match in the 2026 NRL season.
Both players were charged for dangerous contact incidents, with Hess facing a higher fine due to a prior offence.
Match Review Committee Charges
| Player | Club | Incident | Grade | Early Plea | Panel Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clayton Faulalo | Sea Eagles | Dangerous Contact on Braidon Burns | Grade 1 | $1,000 | $1,500 |
| Coen Hess | Cowboys | Dangerous Contact on Jake Simpkin | Grade 1 | $1,800 | $2,500 |
Players Charged in Round 7 (Thursday)
- Clayton Faulalo – Dangerous Contact (Grade 1)
- Coen Hess – Dangerous Contact (Grade 1)
Charge Breakdown
Clayton Faulalo (Sea Eagles)
Faulalo has been charged with Grade 1 Dangerous Contact following an incident involving Braidon Burns in the 25th minute.
- Early Plea: $1,000 fine
- If Guilty at Panel: $1,500 fine
Coen Hess (Cowboys)
Hess has also been charged with Grade 1 Dangerous Contact, following contact involving Jake Simpkin.
Due to it being his second offence on record, he faces an increased penalty.
- Early Plea: $1,800 fine
- If Guilty at Panel: $2,500 fine
What Happens Next
The charged players must decide whether to:
- Accept the early guilty plea, or
- Challenge the charge at the NRL Judiciary panel.
Any contested charges will be heard early next week.
