Hodges charged for Hoffman high shot

Ryan Hoffman in action for NSW. Photo /Getty

Queensland centre Justin Hodges has been charged for a grade one careless high tackle that forced NSW and Warriors back-rower Ryan Hoffman from the field temporarily in last night's second State of Origin clash in Melbourne.

The incident occurred eight minutes from halftime at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, with Hoffman taken from the field to undergo concussion tests before returning to play the second-half as the Blues stormed back from 18-14 down to secure a 26-18 series levelling victory.

It is the third time this season Hoffman has been forced from the park by head-knocks, after twice being assisted to the sidelines in games against the Gold Coast Titans and Parramatta Eels.

Ryan Hoffman in action for NSW. Photo /Getty

Prior to Origin one, Hoffman had to be helped from the field at Pirtek Stadium after he clashed heads with Eels hooker Nathan Peats as the pair fell to the ground in a tackle.

Three weeks earlier he was also knocked out in the Warriors' Anzac Day clash with the Titans following a high tackle from Greg Bird.

After reacting to Hodges taunting him for a handling error in Origin one three weeks ago, Hoffman was collected high with a swinging arm from the 33-year-old Brisbane Broncos veteran.

The shot caught Hoffman flush on the chin and was missed by the match officials but he quickly leapt to his feet and played the ball before eventually being taken out of play by NSW coach Laurie Daley.

Despite the charge, Hodges will be free to play in the Broncos' round 15 NRL match against the Storm in Melbourne on Sunday, regardless if he contests the charge or takes the early plea. The charge carries 75 points for a guilty verdict, with the early guilty plea earning 56 points.

Hoffman and Queensland front-rower Jacob Lillyman have both been named to play in the Warriors away match against the Titans on Saturday, pending fitness checks today.