Roosters second-rower Aliyah Nasio has been hit with the NRLW’s equal longest ban ever after a heated ending to the competition’s grand final.
Nasio was given a four-match suspension by the judiciary for a punch. Kennedy Cherrington was banned for the same number of games in 2023 for a spear tackle.
Controversy overshadowed the final moments of the match, as the Brisbane Broncos sealed a 22-18 victory over the Sydney Roosters.
With only a try separating the teams and less than a minute on the clock, the Roosters had one last roll of the dice, but a cross-field kick was intercepted by Ali Brigginshaw before she was collected high, earning the Broncos a penalty.
Before the full-time siren sounded, the clock ticked down and players quickly ran onto the field to celebrate with their teammates, only for a melee to break out.
Three Broncos players were spotted in a fiery exchange with Nasio, prompting teammates from both sides to rush in.
Pictures captured of the incident showed Nasio with a clenched fist hitting Robinson in the head.
“Oh, we don’t need this flashpoint after full-time, as tempers flare,” said commentator Brenton Speed on Nine.
The players were quickly separated before celebrations resumed.
Nasio pleaded guilty to striking and couldn’t have the charge downgraded from grade three.
NRLW trailblazer Ruan Sims condemned the brawl, immediately raising concerns about individuals who were not actively playing but were on the field and involved in the skirmish.
“I’ll tell you what was a little concerning with that, a little bit of a melee that broke out,” she said in commentary.
“There were players on the field and people on the field who actually weren’t playing, so there’s going to be a lot to look at by the MRC after this.
“But let’s not take away, let’s not take the shine off this victory by this brave Broncos outfit who fought back after the Roosters overcame them in the second half.
“That was some kind of a grand final.”
Speaking post-match, Roosters coach John Strange said he was unaware of the incident and would wait for the official investigation to clarify the details.
“I’m not actually sure what happened. I was walking down onto the field,” he said.
“I think there was a bit of push and shove. We will find out a bit later.”
Meanwhile, Broncos coach Scott Prince stated there was “no place in the game for that”, adding he would be taking the matter up with the NRL.
Broncos co-captain Tamika Upton confirmed foul play, saying she “definitely saw some punches thrown”.
