The Sydney Roosters have fined halfback Mitchell Pearce $20,000 and stood him down from Saturday's match with the Cowboys in Townsville after completing their internal investigation into the events that led to the star playmaker being issued with an infringement notice for failure to quit a licensed premises in the early hours of last Sunday morning.
The Roosters' action leaves the door wide open for Pearce to remain a part of the Blues' Origin plans, with the star expected to be named when the New South Wales side is announced next Tuesday.
Pearce's Roosters and Blues teammate Boyd Cordner - who accompanied the Pearce throughout the evening - was also hit with a $5000 fine for his role in what the Roosters determined was a breach of club and NRL standards.
Half of Cordner's penalty was suspended but he will be forced to pay the balance should he re-offend.
The Roosters' investigation was concluded in consultation with the NRL Integrity Unit; meanwhile, NSW Police have concluded their investigation and determined that no further police action will be taken.
Announcing the club's sanctions, Roosters Chief Operating Officer Football, Brian Canavan, said Pearce would sit out one game and donate his fine to charity. Additionally, he would be required to undertake a strict counselling program.
“The club is most disappointed with the events of the weekend. The club and NRL have strong policies in place and there is a process that has had to run its course,” Canavan said.
“Mitchell and Boyd have accepted the club sanctions and shown genuine remorse for the negative spotlight both have attracted to the Roosters and the game by breaching the club’s and NRL’s standards.
“Both are important contributors to our club, and the game, and we will continue to work closely with them to ensure their continued personal development off the field.”
