Brisbane Broncos coach Michael Maguire has dropped winger Josiah Karapani for the upcoming derby against the Gold Coast Titans. The 24-year-old received a $1001 fine for public nuisance following a heated argument with patrons outside a Fortitude Valley pub around 3:30am last Saturday.
Details of the Incident
The altercation occurred shortly after Karapani featured in the Broncos’ 26-12 victory over the Dolphins at Suncorp Stadium on March 27. Officials issued the fine but lodged no charges against the premiership winner.
Maguire’s Firm Stance
Maguire emphasized his commitment to discipline, stating, ‘We are creating a culture here that we believe will take us to the success of what keeps the Broncos at the highest level.’ He added, ‘I really believe in Josiah. I’ve seen him develop over the past 12 months. He has been able to show that he can play at the highest level… but you have to make sure that everything around you is in the right place to do that, week in, week out.’
This decision aligns with prior actions, including standing down teammate Gehamat Shibasaki for one game after an alcohol-related incident before the NRL finals, and suspending five-eighth Ezra Mam for nine games with a $120,000 fine for a drug-driving offense that discredited the sport.
Broncos’ Recent Form
After a shaky start with a home loss to Parramatta, the Broncos have rallied. They ended a 10-year drought against the Melbourne Storm at AAMI Park on March 20 and dominated the Dolphins at Suncorp Stadium.
Upcoming Queensland Derby
The Broncos face Josh Hannay’s Titans on Saturday night. The Titans enter confidently after defeating the Dragons at home. The match features a sibling rivalry between Titans’ Klese Haas and Broncos’ Payne Haas.
Early TAB odds list Brisbane at $7.50 to claim the NRL premiership, trailing frontrunners Penrith at $3.
