Addin up to a fine for prop’s outburst

MANLY’S Addin FonuaBlake has met with interim NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo over the forward’s ugly outburst at referee Grant Atkins last Sunday.

The 30-minute Zoom meeting also included Manly CEO Stephen Humphreys and Sea Eagles coach Des Hasler.

Fonua-Blake (above) was given a chance to explain why he called Atkins a “r **** d” on the field – he was sent off - and a “s ***** c” during a second rant inside Manly’s dressingroom.

Abdo was digesting FonuaBlake’s account on Thursday and is expected to make a decision on Friday about any further possible punishment for the under-fire player.

The NRL boss was locked in meetings all Thursday afternoon.

He could be suspended but is more likely to be fined and ordered to complete community work with disabled groups. Fonua-Blake had been issued with a notice under the NRL’s antivilification code.

Fonua-Blake was asked to explain why he used offensive language against Atkins and how he intended to rectify the significant damage caused to the club and game. Twice this week Fonua-Blake has issued apologies for his behaviour.

Humphreys arranged the meeting between his player and Abdo. Fonua-Blake has accepted a two-match suspension.