Slater has been doing this for years. Me and some mates have talked about this tactic last year and how potentially damaging it could be. Slater has devised this tactic to combat oppositions pummeling him as he is so dangerous. This is not how he took bombs a few years back.
This is a dangerous ploy and if the NRL do not act on this they will regret it. There is only a split second between a defensive player contesting the ball and withdrawing to become a defender. They have every right to be there, plain and simple and have every right to contest or defend without getting a kicked in the face. This is not a stray boot or an accident. It is a devised ploy to intimidate, to gain an advantage. Plain and simple
As ive said previously this is no different to forwards hitting the line with an elbow cocked . Based on some of the comments above they should be able to do so and not have defenders get in the way. In fact a player that leads with the knee only to have defenders get in way, should also be allowed. Why shouldnt players hit the advantage line with a kicking action to deter the opposition.The defender would always be the problem because any action without them being there is OK
This game is about attack and defence, and defenders should also be protected, not just fullbacks and kickers
Its dodgy, they have walked the fine line and now they should get done. I say they as I have no doubt it is a devised team tactic.
He should be charged on what it is, a deliberate tactic which results in a player being kicked in the head. This is not about toughness, its a sheila move and we dont need bitch tactics in footy