Bulldogs star Jacob Preston cops four-game suspension after failed trip to NRL judiciary
Updated . First published
Bulldogs star Jacob Preston's hopes of earning a call-up to Laure Daley's NSW Blues squad have been dashed after a failed trip to the NRL judiciary.
The back-rower was slapped with a grade one charge for a crusher tackle on Titans skipper Tino Fa'asuamaleaui and was facing a three-game ban with an early guilty plea.
However, the club and Preston decided to fight the charge and lost after a hearing on Tuesday night, rubbing the State of Origin hopeful out for four matches.
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The 23-year-old was considered as a serious bolter for an Origin debut later this month, with the squad to be announced at the end of round 11.
Preston was given marching orders following the tackle on Sunday afternoon as the Bulldogs were forced to play with just 12 men for the final four minutes of the clash.
Jacob Preston learns his fate at the NRL judiciary. Fox League/Nine
Todd Smith stated the issue with Preston's tackling action was that the grip he held placed pressure on the back of Fa'asuamaleaui's neck as he lost his footing.
Preston was seen shaking his head as he headed to the changerooms while skipper Stephen Crichton pleaded with Smith.
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Preston was considered alongside teammate Jacob Kiraz as an option for the Blues.
Canterbury were already without Sitili Tupouniua and Josh Curran due to suspension, with Preston's absence only adding to their woes in the forward pack.
Matt Burton will return at five-eighth after serving a one-week ban.
