Former Bronco Cries In Court Over Fatal Tackle On James Ackerman

Francis Molo has never seen the footage


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(Facebook: Support for Ackers #8 - The James Ackerman Legacy)

FORMER Broncos prop Francis Molo has fought back in tears while giving evidence about the death of Sunshine Coast Falcons' player James Ackerman.

Ackerman, a 25-year-old father of two, died two days after he was tackled to the ground by Molo during a Queensland Cup match in 2015.

Today, Francis Molo has taken to the stand in Brisbane Court, saying he doesn't think the tackle, despite accepting a nine week suspension. 

The 22-year-old claims he instead made contact with the 25-year-old's chest. 

The incident occurred in a match between the Norths Devils and the Sunshine Coast Falcons.

"I didn't deliberately shoulder charge him. I was there to do my job: to play hard and tackle hard," he said.

Mr Molo became emotional when lawyers discussed playing footage of the tackle in court.

The former Bronco has never seen it.

The coroner decided he would not be made to watch it today.

 

Shoulder charges were banned from the sport in 2012.

5 July 2017




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