But despite family member, Tony Mundine, (Anthony Mundine's dad) saying Ferguson was "very lucky that he got two years of bond", his lawyer, Adam Houda, appealed the decision and was highly critical of the NRL's treatment of his client who is not signed to any club.
Mr Houda said, "On all grounds an appeal has just been lodged. We don't agree with the Magistrates findings or decisions so we are taking this matter up to a superior court.
"It's unfortunate that the NRL would make the official comments that they made, they stink of prejudgement," he said. "They are quite happy to throw 18-year-old kids into a culture that is embedded in alcohol, they are quite happy to throw them into the spotlight of celebrity life where every part of their movements are scrutinised, but when they can't handle that pressure they want to crush them.
"After the offence was proved, we walked out here and within minutes there was an official condemnation - what careful consideration was made of what took place in court? Of the facts, of the mitigating circumstances, nothing, just condemnation to appease whoever they wanted to appease."
