Tears of a Cowboy
THE toll of an indecent assault charge was plain to see as Cowboys front rower Scott Bolton broke down during a press conference yesterday. Speaking for the first time since the shock charge on Sunday over an alleged incident at a Sydney bar, the former Innisfail star and widely-respected player, shed tears and said he was treating the matter very seriously.
NORTH Queensland Cowboys player Scott Bolton will continue to play in the NRL as he awaits the outcome of an investigation into an allegation he indecently assaulted a woman in a Sydney bar.
Bolton faced the media yesterday for the first time since he was charged.
He was emotional while reading a prepared statement to media in Townsville yesterday afternoon.
The Innisfail man said he would consult with the North Queensland Cowboys hierarchy to determine whether he would play Wests Tigers in Sydney tomorrow after he was charged following an alleged incident on Saturday night.
The 30-year-old was named to start in the front row in the Cowboys team released yesterday afternoon.
However, there is a strong chance there will be a late change after fellow front rower Francis Molo was flown to Sydney on Sunday night as standby.
“I understand that our members, partners and fans would like me to talk about the allegation that has been made against me,” Bolton said.
“However, since this is a matter that involves the police and the NRL Integrity Unit, I am unable to make any comments about the incident right now. What I can say is that I am taking the matter very seriously and co-operating fully with the police and the NRL Integrity Unit.
“I have been approved by the NRL and the club during this investigation and so will work with the coach and our football department to decide whether I will play this week.
“I would ask that you respect the privacy of my wife and family who are supporting me through this difficult time.”
Bolton did not take questions from the media.
Police allege Bolton grabbed a 49-year-old woman’s genitals at a dinner with teammates in Bondi on Saturday evening.
A senior police source told News Corp Australia the allegations would form the foundations of a charge against Bolton of assault with an act of indecency. The offence carries up to five years jail.
Former Cowboys coach Neil Henry, who handed 215game club stalwart Bolton a permanent first-grade spot in 2009, said the situation seemed “out of character”.
“He’s a quiet, reserved guy who loves his fishing and has always been seen in social situations as respectful and quiet,” Henry said.
“Personally, knowing Bolton for a long time, it seems totally out of character.
“In terms of vouching for his character, I can certainly do that.”