Eels suspend Tautai over drink-driving
Parramatta has fined and stood down utility back Taulima Tautai after they discovered he was arrested for drink driving almost two weeks ago.
Tautai met with club officials on Monday, where he was suspended for two NRL matches, issued with a $5,000 fine, and ordered to take part in a driver awareness course.
The 21-year-old was also prevented from playing NSW Cup for Eels' feeder side Wentworthville last weekend, after news of his arrest came to the club's attention on Friday afternoon.
Tautai was allegedly pulled over by police and breath tested shortly before midnight on Thursday, June 11.
He was reportedly arrested after blowing over the limit, before recording a second blood alcohol reading of 0.061 at Merrylands Police Station.
Parramatta were contacted about the incident last week and then confronted Tautai before he came clean.
"We had a positive meeting with Taulima and his management and whist he is very apologetic and disappointed in his actions we have to send a clear message in cases like this," Eels acting chief executive Andrew Hill said in a statement on Tuesday.
"The club hopes that this issue will serve as a reminder of the standards and responsibilities that our players need to maintain."
The club-imposed suspension means Tautai will miss Sunday's NRL clash with Brisbane and next week's match against Penrith.
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