Fainifo to miss one week

Francis Fainifo congratulates the Rays' Ofa Fainga'anuku last weekend (SMP Images)

Navy Canberra Vikings winger Francis Fainifo has been suspended for one match following his side’s 17-13 loss to the Central Coast Rays at Manuka Oval on Sunday.

Fainifo was required to front tonight’s judicial hearing after he was cited for a dangerous tackle on Rays inside centre Sam Harris in the 18th minute of Sunday’s match. He was called to appear before the Judicial Officer, ACT Magistrate Shane Madden, by the citing commissioner but was not reported during the match.

Fainifo said he is disappointed to miss the Navy Canberra Vikings’ clash with the top-placed Western Sydney Rams on Saturday night at Parramatta Stadium.

“It’s obviously frustrating to miss such an important match in what is a fairly short competition,” he said. “But I was given a fair hearing by the tribunal and I’m happy to accept the penalty I’ve been given by the judiciary.

“There was no malice intended in the tackle. It was an awkward tackle and I’m glad Sam [Harris] wasn’t hurt and was able to play on afterwards.”

The Navy Canberra Vikings will play the Western Sydney Rams at Parramatta Stadium on Saturday night. Kick off is at 7.30pm.