SYDNEY ROOSTERS STAR half-back and co-captain Mitchell Pearce was stood down from training today after video emerged of him simulating a lewd act with a dog during drunken celebrations.
The 26-year-old Australian, who reportedly has two years left on a nearly two-million dollar contract, faces a lengthy suspension, fine or even sacking.
Roosters coach Trent Robinson did not rule out Pearce being sacked when asked by reporters, saying only that the club would discuss the punishment this week.
“We are going through it with the NRL (National Rugby League). It is too difficult to make a comment,” Robinson said.
“The Sydney Roosters have found that Mitchell’s behaviour was unacceptable and that’s why he’s been stood down up until this matter is resolved.
“I’ve had discussions with him both yesterday and this morning and that will continue.”
Pearce was caught shirtless on camera staggering around during Australia Day celebrations on Tuesday and sporting a large wet stain on his shorts.
He grabbed a kiss off a woman before launching into expletive-laden rant about wanting to commit a sex act on a dog, adding “and I don’t even care”.
The murky footage, aired on websites and television stations, shows him picking up a small white dog, reported to be a poodle-cross, and simulating sex before a woman pulls the animal away and orders Pearce to leave.
“I care, you have peed on my couch, you have peed on yourself,” she shouts, before swearing and telling him to get out.
The Roosters announced an immediate investigation.
“The Club wishes to advise that Mitchell Pearce has been stood down from all training commitments until the club concludes its internal investigation,” a statement said.
“The Club continues to work closely with the NRL Integrity Unit and will be making no further comment at this time.”
The unit asked the Roosters for a report into the incident.
“The Integrity Unit will work with the Roosters to ensure the matter is dealt with appropriately,” a spokesman said.
The Sydney Morning Herald said the rival Daily Telegraph paid Aus$40,000 for rights to the mobile phone footage while Channel Nine coughed up Aus$20,000.
Pearce lost his place in the New South Wales State of Origin team two years ago after CCTV footage showed him grabbing a woman at a nightclub following a complaint about his behaviour.
The Roosters fined him Aus$20,000 and suspended him for one game. He returned for NSW last year.
