Line in the sand regarding player behaviour drawn after just three rounds.
Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson has put his stamp on the club already by suspending new recruit Luke O’Donnell for one game.
Robinson’s decision is due to a number of breaches by O’Donnell of the club’s behaviour policy including being late for training.
However, a brief statement by the Roosters failed to reveal the extent of O’Donnell’s misbehaviour.
“The Sydney Roosters have strong policies in place and any form of breach is taken seriously,” Sydney Roosters Chief Operating Officer Football, Brian Canavan said on the club’s website.
The off-field drama comes as a distraction for the Roosters who showed tremendous defensive resolve last round to keep the Brisbane Broncos scoreless.
Sydney was forced to make an extra 120 tackles but did so in grinding out an important 8-0 win.
O’Donnell’s place in the side has been taken by Aiden Guerra, as the Roosters prepare to host a Parramatta side looking for its second win of the year.
Eels coach Ricky Stuart has named Ken Sio (ankle) to make his return from injury with Cheyse Blair dropped to make way.
Rookie Vai Toutai retains his spot while Luke Kelly (hamstring) also returns, with Matt Ryan (knee, indefinite) making way.
ROOSTERS: Anthony Minichiello (capt), Daniel Tupou, Michael Jennings, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, James Maloney, Mitchell Pearce, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Jake Friend, Sam Moa, Boyd Cordner, Sonny Bill Williams, Frank-Paul Nuuausala. Interchange: Daniel Mortimer, Martin Kennedy, Mitchell Aubusson, Aidan Guerra, Kane Evans (one to be omitted).
EELS: Jarryd Hayne (capt), Ken Sio, Ryan Morgan, Jacob Loko, Vai Toutai, Luke Kelly, Chris Sandow, Mitch Allgood, Matt Keating, Tim Mannah, Reni Maitua (capt), Ben Smith, Joseph Paulo. Interchange: Ben Roberts, Darcy Lussick, Fuifui Moimoi, Kelepi Tanginoa.
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