Hard-hitting Manly centre Steve Matai is facing a possible two-match stint on the sidelines after being hit with two dangerous contact charges by the NRL judiciary on Monday.

Matai was put on report for using his knees in a tackle on St George Illawarra five-eighth Jamie Soward just before half-time during the Sea Eagles' 48-18 defeat at Wollongong on Sunday.

The New Zealand international was hit with a second charge relating to a grapple tackle in the second half.

Matai, who had 20 carryover points for each offence, will miss two games - one for each offence - if he makes an early guilty plea.

Dragons recruit Nathan Fien was also charged with a high tackle in the same game but will avoid a ban with the offence carrying 56 points with an early plea, and 75 if he opts to fight the charge and loses.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP