Michael Maguire has attempted to dismiss Reece Walsh’s headbutt on Hudson Young as two players having a “conversation,” while Raiders coach Ricky Stuart criticized the officials, claiming they “got it 100 percent wrong” by not sending Walsh off. The star fullback’s season hangs in the balance after he was sin-binned for pushing his forehead into Young’s face during a confrontation in the 53rd minute of Brisbane’s epic 29-28 qualifying final win in Canberra on Sunday.
Walsh played a pivotal role in Brisbane’s comeback, as they trailed 28-12 with just 14 minutes remaining. The mercurial Broncos fullback scored one try, set up another, and kicked a booming 40/20 to regain possession for Brisbane. His long-range field goal attempt hit the crossbar, resulting in a penalty goal that sent the game into extra time.
Controversial Incident and Reactions
The headbutt incident occurred when Walsh and Young became entangled after a Broncos knock-on, with Young celebrating in Walsh’s face. Both players were sin-binned, with referee Ashley Klein dismissing Young for provoking Walsh. Walsh later joked that Young called him a “weak-gutted dog,” referencing Stuart’s previous comments about Penrith’s Jaeman Salmon in 2022.
Raiders captain Joe Tapine and Young protested on the field, and Stuart was adamant in the post-match press conference that Walsh should have been sent off. “They’ve set a precedent now. You’re allowed to headbutt,” Stuart remarked. “If Joe or Hudson headbutted Reece Walsh, what do you think would have happened?”
The match review committee is set to deliberate on the incident, which could result in a suspension for Walsh. This marks the second time Walsh has faced accusations of headbutting, having previously received a grade-two striking charge during the State of Origin in 2023.
Potential Consequences and Historical Context
A grade-two dangerous contact or striking charge could end Walsh’s season unless he successfully contests it at the NRL judiciary. Walsh might also face a fine for gesturing at the Canberra Stadium crowd while leaving for the sin-bin. However, this would not affect his participation in Brisbane’s preliminary final against either Canterbury or Penrith.
Meanwhile, Broncos stand-in captain Pat Carrigan was also sin-binned for a high shot on Morgan Smithies. During their time in the bin, Carrigan and Walsh discussed launching a comeback. “The conversation was pretty clear,” Carrigan said. “It was just let’s get out there and have a crack.”
Implications for the Broncos
The Broncos secured a week off before their preliminary final after a grueling 94-minute match that included two periods of extra time, culminating in Ben Hunt’s decisive field goal. The break is timely, as key players face injury concerns. Prop Payne Haas played with a heavily strapped ankle, and there are fears second-rower Brendan Piakura suffered a depressed cheekbone.
The team is optimistic about having captain and halfback Adam Reynolds return from a hamstring strain for the upcoming match. The potential absence of Walsh could significantly impact the Broncos, given his instrumental role in their recent victory.
As the NRL judiciary prepares to review the incidents, the Broncos’ strategy and lineup for the preliminary final remain uncertain. The outcome of the review could alter the dynamics of the team’s preparation and performance in the next stage of the competition.
