Lawyer of former NRL star goes on the attack

The lawyer for former NRL star Hazem El Masri has used a brief court appearance to launch a scathing attack on his client’s alleged domestic violence victim, describing her as ‘‘a compulsive liar’’ with a history of making ‘‘hysterical false accusations’’.

In an attack, which the magistrate suggested was delivered for the benefit of the watching media, lawyer Chris Murphy said the assault allegations against El Masri by his wife Douah El-Cherif were the result of a ‘‘prank call to police’’.

The former Bulldogs star was charges of Monday night with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and common assault in relation to an alleged incident at his home about 7.30pm.

‘‘She is a liar, she made it up,’’ Murphy said in Bankstown Local Court as his 39-year-old client looked on from the gallery of the packed courtroom. this is a chance for them to blow out some cobwebs.’’

Leeds Rhinos became only the third side in Super League history to win the coveted treble in the UK this year and the game will mark the final appearances for club legends Jamie Peacock, Kevin Sinfield and Kylie Leuluai.

Former Kiwi Ali Lauitiiti and Adrian Morley have also been

He said that El-Cherif had given police different explanations for how a mark came to be on her face. ‘‘Our case is that the complainant is a compulsive liar.’’

But magistrate Daniel Reiss took exception to Murphy’s comments, accusing him of grandstanding for the large media contingent.

‘‘You might want to speak to the media outside,’’ Reiss said.

He said the criticism of El-Cherif was ‘‘a bit perverse when we’re here to deal with a protection order’’ and lectured Murphy for talking over him in court.

‘‘The number one rule in my court is not to talk at the same time as me,’’ he said. ‘‘It doesn’t matter whether you’ve got 40 years’ experience or four.’’

The magistrate agreed to dispense with bail, meaning that El Masri is free to live in the community without any conditions on his liberty. The matter will return to court on February 1. brought back to play for the club to mark the occasion.

‘‘This will be perfect preparation for us,’’ said Kearney. ‘‘Leeds will be honouring some pretty special players and they’re expecting a full house. ‘‘We’re aware of the history of this match, with the 1907 All Golds playing Leeds in their buildup to a test series, so for me, this is an historic occasion in that sense.’’