BREAKING: Dolphins ahead Felise Kaufusi set to overlook Brisbane derby after copping three-match suspension

Dolphins ahead Felise Kaufusi is about to overlook subsequent weekend’s highly-anticipated Brisbane derby towards the Brisbane Broncos after copping a three-match suspension from the NRL match-review committee.

Kaufusi was placed on report twice and sin-binned throughout Friday night’s 36-20 victory over the Newcastle Knights at McDonald Jones Stadium.

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The 30-year-old was placed on report for a excessive shot within the 63rd minute and handed his marching orders 5 minutes later for a late hit on Newcastle halfback Jackson Hastings, who was despatched for an HIA as a consequence of whiplash.

On Saturday morning, the NRL match-review committee handed down a Grade 2 cost for “dangerous contact”, and since it was Kaufusi’s third offence, he acquired a three-match suspension on an early plea.

Speaking to reporters within the post-match press convention, Knights coach Adam O’Brien argued Kaufusi’s late shot “probably” warranted a sin bin, however refused to touch upon whether or not he thought Hastings ought to have been pressured off for a HIA.

“It was late and in the back, so it probably needs to go to the bin,” O’Brien mentioned.

When requested within the post-match press convention whether or not he was involved Kaufusi could possibly be unavailable subsequent week, Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett claimed he was extra nervous concerning the veteran ahead’s dealing with errors.

“I’m more concerned with his three dropped balls than anything else,” Bennett smirked.

“He shouldn’t be (happy with his game).

“He wants to stay out of my way for a couple of days. I have no doubt he won’t be happy to see my face.”

The Dolphins, who’ve began their season with three consecutive wins, shift their consideration in direction of subsequent weekend’s match towards Bennett’s former membership at Suncorp Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 8pm AEDT on Friday, March 24.

“There’s no pressure this week. It’s (the derby) the easiest game in the world to coach,” Bennett mentioned.

“Everybody wants to play in it. If you’re a football player you want to be there at the best stadium in Australia. I don’t think anyone will need motivating to be there.”