James Fisher-Harris is set to spend a week off the field following a high tackle on Harrison Graham during the closing moments of the Warriors’ match against the Dolphins. The incident occurred in the 77th minute when Fisher-Harris’s shoulder collided squarely with Graham’s face, prompting referee Peter Gough to award a penalty and send Fisher-Harris to the sin bin, despite protests from teammate Mitch Barnett.
Commentator Kevin Walters supported the decision, stating there was nothing wrong with the ruling. On Sunday, Fisher-Harris received a grade two dangerous contact charge, which could see him sit out for one match or face a lengthier ban if he contests the charge and loses.
With Fisher-Harris absent, the Dolphins managed to score a late try to reduce the deficit to 16-6 but ultimately failed to stage a comeback in the match. Notably, he was the only player suspended from Saturday’s games, though others faced fines for their actions. Kodi Nikorima and Siosifa Talakai were fined for high shots on Demitric Vaimauga and Ryan Papenhuyzen, respectively, while Reuben Garrick was penalised for dangerous contact on Scott Drinkwater. Meanwhile, Papenhuyzen himself avoided punishment for a high tackle on Ronaldo Mulitalo during the Storm’s defeat to the Sharks.