Knights player Jacob Saifiti has been fined $3000 after pleading guilty to headbutting Bulldogs hooker Reed Mahoney. This incident capped off a disastrous match for the Newcastle Knights, who suffered a 30-point defeat to the Bulldogs. Saifiti’s actions occurred in the final minute, highlighting a significant lapse in judgment.
Earlier in the game, Jacob’s brother, Daniel Saifiti, left the field due to injury and did not return. In the closing moments, Jacob Saifiti followed suit, heading to the tunnel early after being sin-binned for headbutting Mahoney. The match review committee charged Saifiti with a grade 1 striking offense. For context, Roosters player Victor Radley received a three-week suspension for a similar offense last season, although Radley’s disciplinary record is more extensive.
The altercation began when Mahoney attempted to score from close range but was stopped by several Knights players. As he got up, a scuffle ensued, with Mahoney exchanging words with the Newcastle players. The referee intervened, urging the players to calm down, emphasizing that there was only a minute left in the game. However, Saifiti ignored these warnings, escalated the situation by pushing Mahoney, and subsequently headbutting him.
The headbutt incident underscores the Knights’ frustration and lack of discipline during the game. Despite the referee’s efforts to defuse the tension, Saifiti’s actions not only cost him a fine but also tarnished an already poor performance by the Knights. The episode reflects poorly on the team and adds to the challenges they face as they move forward from this defeat.
