Brisbane have been struck a blow ahead of Friday’s semi-final against North Queensland with flyer James Roberts found guilty of contrary conduct at the NRL judiciary.

Roberts was found guilty on Wednesday night of a grade-one contrary conduct charge for striking at Gold Coast’s Ryan Simpkins with his feet, rubbing the star centre out of his side’s must-win finals clash with the Cowboys.

The 23-year-old was charged for striking at Simpkins as he lay in the ruck during the Broncos’ 44-28 win over Gold Coast and will be replaced on Friday night by rookie Jonus Pearson.