It’s the most dangerous tackle in the NRL. Dolphins coach says this player is being targeted

Dolphins coach Kristian Woolf has raised alarm over a pattern of dangerous hip-drop tackles targeting star centre Herbie Farnworth, warning that such incidents could lead to a serious injury. The concerns emerged following multiple instances of low and from-behind contact in recent games, prompting Woolf to call for urgent action from the NRL. Farnworth, a key player for the Dolphins, has faced at least five such tackles in the past few weeks, with several incidents going unpunished despite the potential risk. The most recent incident occurred in the 47th minute of last Saturday's 40-32 victory over Brisbane, where Kotoni Staggs was penalised for a hip-drop tackle on Farnworth. Earlier in round 18, Newcastle players attempted two tackles on Farnworth within six minutes, but neither was sanctioned. A similar situation arose in round 16, when a tackle from behind was deemed dubious, and in round eight, Farnworth believed Warriors winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak had executed a hip-drop tackle, though the referee ordered him to continue play. According to Woolf, the issue lies in how the match review committee defines a punishable hip-drop tackle. Officials only charge players if the bulk of their bodyweight lands on the attacking player’s legs. While Farnworth has received medical attention on multiple occasions, no charges have been filed against any of the players involved. Woolf expressed concern that without stricter enforcement, the repeated nature of these tackles could result in a catastrophic injury for Farnworth, especially given his physicality and ability to break the line. Woolf highlighted that the hip-drop tackle is a known tactic among defenders, particularly when players are the third to enter a tackle and target Farnworth’s legs. He noted that while some players attempt to execute the move with precision, others simply launch themselves into the tackle without regard for safety. In one instance, Cronulla’s Jesse Ramien was beaten by Farnworth but used a technique involving placing his knee on the ground to try to bring Farnworth down. Farnworth, who is 26 years old, has had a stellar season at Redcliffe, leading the Dolphins' attack alongside other elite players such as Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Selwyn Cobbo, and Jack Bostock, each of whom is currently part of the Origin squad. The team also includes Jamayne Isaako, Kodi Nikorima, and Isaiya Katoa, forming one of the strongest backlines in the NRL. Despite the ongoing scrutiny around his safety, Farnworth remains a focal point for both his club and potential new teams. There is growing speculation that Farnworth may seek a move to the Sydney Roosters ahead of the 2028 season, with the open market set to open on November 1. Woolf acknowledged the external interest in Farnworth but expressed confidence that the Dolphins could retain him before the World Cup in October. “We’re comfortable with the situation, we’re confident that Herbie wants to be at our club, and we want him at the club long-term,” Woolf stated. Looking ahead, the Dolphins aim to maintain their top-four hopes as they prepare for a crucial match against the Manly Sea Eagles at the Northern Beaches. Following the Sea Eagles, they face Parramatta, the Roosters, and the Titans before entering their first-ever finals campaign. With the stakes high and the pressure mounting, the club will need to ensure the health and safety of its star players, especially as the season progresses.