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The Rugby League Players Association (RLPA) is disappointed with the NRL Board’s decision to suspend Manly Player Brett Stewart under the NRL Code of Conduct.

“It appears now that the NRL Board have drawn a line in the sand in regards to alcohol consumption by each person bound by the code”, Matt Rodwell said.

“The Players are extremely frustrated and angry that the application of the rules have been applied in this situation but were not applied on previous occasions”.

The RLPA, who has spent the afternoon consulting with Players, can convey that many believe Stewart has been ‘hung out to dry’ due to mounting pressure on the NRL from various sectors.

The Players cannot comprehend that Stewart has been found guilty of a breach under the code of conduct when many Players (and Officials) have previously been ignored for perceived breaches.

“I have a very angry Playing group, particularly those at Manly,  who are confused at the lack of consistency in the application of the rules which apply in this case” Rodwell explained.

“All the Players are seeking is consistency across the board”.

“ The RLPA strongly supports the game wide strategy to promote responsible drinking and behaviour, but  it is clear the  time  has arrived for an  independent body  to be established to deal with matters relating to indiscretions as referred to in the NRL Code of Conduct .   The RLPA believes this would help alleviate pressure from the NRL and the Clubs and create consistency when dealing with the sanctioning of code breaches”.

“Transparent and consistent rules need to be applied across the game .  Players, Administrators and Officials are entitled to prior  knowledge of the consequences for any breach of the code.”

“The NRL must ensure that any future breach of the Code, particularly when it involves alcohol by Players, Administrators or Officials is dealt with in a consistent manner  to avoid any future inconsistencies that often plague the game” Rodwell added.