Penrith playmaker Jerome Louie is free to be selected in the NSW Blues State of Origin squad after escaping with a penalty for a high shot during the Panthers’ 22-0 win over the Cowboys on Friday.
Towards the end of the second half, Louie ran off the defensive line, making a mistake in his time and landing a high shot at cowboy fullback Scott Drinkwater.
Referee Ashley Klein’s report immediately put him in charge, with the NRL’s Match Review Committee finding Saturday morning’s high shot to be only a Grade One offense.
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Louis’ charge for a Grade-One careless high tackle means the playmaker could receive a $ 1000 fine without a stay.
The news comes as a big relief for NSW Blues coach Brad Fitler who will announce his 22-man squad for the first game on Sunday night, June 8th.
Louis Hall is Fitler’s potential first choice for the five-eighth jersey since his successful NSW introduction last year.
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