Gallen fined for indiscretion

Cronulla Sharks have fined Australian international Paul Gallen $10,000 after he was issued with an infringement notice for urinating in public.

The loose forward was apprehended by police last Saturday in Sydney and has been issued with a heavy fine by his club, half of which will be suspended subject to good behaviour for the remainder of his contract.

“Paul is the first to admit to an error of judgement and accepts that a strong penalty was required,”  Cronulla CEO Richard Fisk told Fox Sports.

“Whilst the club has taken a strong stand against the unacceptable behaviour from one of our senior players, the police have confirmed that after the incident Paul was apologetic, polite and co-operative.”

Gallen, who represented the Kangaroos in the Four Nations tournament, has apologised to the club for his behaviour,

“While there are extenuating circumstances around the incident, I accept that ultimately I have embarrassed everyone involved in the club,” said the Sharks former captain.

“I genuinely apologise for my actions particularly at a time when there is such a positive feeling around the club with so many people doing a great job off the field.”

The New South Wales State of Origin representative was fined $10,000 last season by the NRL after making racist comments to St George Illawarra Dragons player Mickey Paea.