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“There were a few phone calls, but there was no excuse. I did try to rectify the decision and go back to the NRL at the time, but it was too late. That’s something I’ve got to deal with. I’m moving on now that I’m back playing. In hindsight I wouldn’t have made the decision, but I’m so glad it’s all over.”

The Eels tried numerous times over summer to have Matterson’s plea reversed, but were unsuccessful.

Matterson said he was unaware of criticism from rival players over the furore, but Roosters star Brandon Smith set the scene for an explosive clash on Thursday night when he took aim at the Eels forward.

“He’s done a lot to pay them back, but I think he still owes them a bit,” Smith said. “I don’t know what was going through his head when he decided to take the four [sic] weeks instead. But hopefully he’s not doing it too tough.

“I definitely would’ve taken the fine for sure ... four weeks is a big stint. I’m not happy with this bye we’ve had and one week off.”

Said Matterson: “I’ve had a tremendous amount of support from my teammates and it hasn’t been a big talking point here. Everyone knows what’s been going on behind closed doors here. I play my hardest for these boys and they do the same for me.”

with Dan Walsh

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