Donnelly cleared of eye-gouging accusations

Melbourne Storm front-rower Ian Donnelly has been cleared of any wrong-doing by the NRL judiciary panel regarding eye-gouging accusations levelled at him by Penrith Panthers back-rower Frank Pritchard.

However, Donnelly has been handed a Grade 1 contrary conduct charge stemming from a tackle made by Donnelly on Pritchard in the game between the two clubs on Sunday afternoon at Olympic Park.

Melbourne Storm CEO Brian Waldron has expressed disappointment at the outburst by Pritchard.

“We’re extremely disappointed Pritchard would question the integrity of Ian Donnelly,” said Waldron.

“His actions in making these unfounded accusations could be seen as bringing the game into disrepute.

“We are happy to cop criticism for genuine incidents; however we will not tolerate unfounded accusations that potentially damage the reputation of one of our players.

“And we will continually defend our players against such accusations.”

The Grade 1 contrary conduct charge, on this occasion, carries a 159 point penalty resulting in a one week ban should the club take an early guilty plea.

“Ian and the Storm will consider the charges, and the club will make a decision on whether to contest them over the next 24 hours,” said Waldron.