MATT Prior faces a lengthy stint on the sidelines after being called to front the NRL judiciary tomorrow night.
The utility was sent off after knocking out Cowboys ace Jonathan Thurston with an apparent forearm to the head in St George Illawarra’s 30-6 loss against North Queensland on Friday night.
By being referred straight to the judiciary, the match review panel have deemed the tackle more excessive than a grade five charge which carries a five-week suspension.
Prior will be assisted with a clean judiciary record. He became the first player in the NRL this year and the first St George Illawarra player since Jason Ryles in July 2008 to be sent off.
Dragons coach Steve Price jumped to the defence of Prior, claiming the incident was uncharacteristic.
‘‘It’s not in Matty Prior’s make-up,’’ Price said. ‘‘It’s not his go. He was apologetic. He was disappointed with himself and most importantly letting his team down.’’
The loss of Prior compounded an unhappy night for the Dragons who leaked 22 unanswered first half-points.
‘‘We spoke all week about getting off to a good start,’’ Price said.
‘‘But to let 18 points in the first 15-16 minutes was disappointing.’’
With Prior all but certain to miss the clash against Penrith on Monday and Beau Scott (elbow) out for at least another month, the Dragons backrow depth will be put to the test.
Dean Young (knee) is expected to return against the Panthers; Atelea Vea, Josh Miller and Jack Stockwell will come under consideration for NRL selection.
