Unfortunately with Brett the inconsistencies and hypocrisy with the NRL and the media go hand in hand .
The level of sensationalism generated by the media with Brett Stewart was ridiculous. Front page headlines for days and days, new versions from their close and unnamed sources and witnesses... Amazing
When the news broke that the DNA results were negative it was relegated to pages further in and given only the smallest amount of space.
It was a complete trial by media.
The fact the NRL reacted (or should I say over-reacted ) was (IMO) based on the media coverage generated.
Gallop was never going to be happy with anything other than a suspension due to the media pressure. Manly acted the same as other clubs in the past e.g Brisbane.
Gallop succumbed to media pressure with his heavy handed stance, but has not made it a precendent. As per The Footy Show last Thursday, he made it clear that the NRL always had the power to step in before Brett's incident, and had used it in the past and would do so in the future if the Club does not take the correct stand. I guess he condoned Lockyer, Thaiday etc last year, and even chose Inglis who had been caught intoxicated in the past also.
In Friend's case the media attention has not been that full on, so Gallop is happy with just a fine.