Saints’ Taane Samuel fined, suspended one game for altercation

Saints forward Taane Samuel has been fined $375 and given a one-game suspension for his on-court actions against the Manawatu Jets in Round 14 on Saturday night.

The incident was referred to the Game Review Panel (GRP) and it was determined that his actions were a classifiable offence as outlined in the Tribunal Policy.

Samuel was involved in an incident during the second quarter which resulted in scuffle and a disqualifying foul issued to Daniel Pippen II that removed Pippen II from the game.

Samuel struck Pippen II in the throat/neck area which comes with a two-game sanction and $250 fine.

Samuel was also fined $250 for using an excessive/obscene gesture towards another player and a further $250 for making an inappropriate comment regarding the incident on social media.

Samuel took the early plea on all counts and will serve his one-game suspension in Round 15 against the Auckland Tuatara.