http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/08/11/2652686.htm
Inglis could face more punishment: Gallop
Posted August 11, 2009 15:37:00
Updated August 11, 2009 15:45:00
National Rugby League (NRL) chief executive David Gallop says Melbourne Storm star Greg Inglis is likely to face several weeks on the sidelines over the latest off-field scandal to rock the game.
Inglis has been suspended indefinitely by the Storm after being charged with assaulting his girlfriend Sally Robinson on Sunday.
The 22-year-old representative star will appear in a Melbourne court tomorrow on charges of unlawful assault and recklessly causing injury.
Mr Gallop has applauded Melbourne's action and says the NRL is also investigating the incident and could impose a a longer ban if necessary.
"At this stage what I'm saying is that I don't believe one week will be sufficient," he said.
"But let's wait and see as the facts come to light over the next couple of days and what comes out of the court process tomorrow."
Mr Gallop also acknowledged the charges against Inglis will further damage rugby league's reputation.
"I think everyone in the game is disappointed that we are dealing with this situation today," he said.
"Obviously our concern goes out for Sally and indeed Greg.
"The matter is back in court again tomorrow and its difficult to pre-empt what the next step is but in our view this would go beyond a one-week suspension."
The incident is another blow to the NRL, which featured Inglis and Manly full-back Brett Stewart in its early season advertising campaign.
When Stewart was charged with sexual assaulting a teenage girl, the NRL edited the advertisement to feature only Inglis.
The NRL also suspended Stewart for four weeks for his drunken behaviour at the club's season launch.
Stewart faces court next month.
The allegations against Inglis saw
Manly chairman Scott Penn today call on the NRL to be consistent in its response.
