Damien Cook slams reports Latrell Mitchell was not racially abused in Penrith

Rabbitohs star Damien Cook has denied claims that the insult allegedly directed at Latrell Mitchell for two weeks was not racially motivated.

A 15-year-old boy in a Sydney Roosters jersey allegedly targeted an alleged racial slur at the south fullback as he walked off the field at half-time during Souths’ 16-10 loss to Penrith on 9 March.

The spectator was identified and subsequently removed from the BlueBet stadium, while the NRL Integrity Unit and NSW Police continue to investigate.

according to News CorpThere are conflicting reports about the nature of the insult, with some witnesses telling police they heard Mitchell call “black dog”, while others claim they heard “dirty dog”.

Meanwhile, according to Sydney Morning Heraldthe teen disputes the claim that the slur was racially motivated.

Cook declined the suggestion when asked about it on the Fox League Podcast.

I don’t know how you can say that without making this comment racist.

“I certainly don’t see how you can say that and not immediately associate it with racism.”

The Rabbitohs and Fanthers have developed a heated rivalry over the past two years, with Penrith beating Souths 14-12 in the 2021 Grand Final and 32-14 in the preliminary final last season.

The premiers came out on top again in the second round but the hostility on the field was quickly put aside when Mitchell was allegedly abused, with players from both sides presenting a united front.

And Cook revealed that Panthers star Jarome Louay was among the first players to show his support for his New South Wales teammate.

‘I still remember [Jarome] Louay turned around and headed towards the crowd as well because he heard him.’

He was supportive of Latrell and I told him after the game that I really appreciated his reaction at the time.

I hope Latrell feels the love not only from his teammates but from the opposition [as well].

“We can go toe-to-toe on the field but when we go out it’s a different game.”

Southern President Jason Demetriou called Anyone convicted of using racist language is banned for life From attending NRL games, the ban should extend to the parents if the offender is underage.

Meanwhile, Nicho Hynes has suggested that the NRL should look to educate the alleged abuser by inviting him to enter next year’s Indigenous All Stars camp.

The Cronulla star, who played with Mitchell in Indigenous All Stars this year, said the NRL was ‘obligated’ to validate the alleged perpetrator.

Cooke, who admitted that “trauma” incidents like the one allegedly aimed at Mitchell could happen “in this day and age”, echoed Haynes’ position.

‘he [the 15-year-old boy] He needs an education. “His name and shame should not be revealed,” he said.

“It’s all about education and for that person to go and learn about the culture and understand some of the damage that’s done as well.”