Over the festive period former Leeds Rhinos player Matthew Syron was attacked with a glass in a drunken altercation and his attacker has now heard that he could be set for a life sentence.
The incident that occurred on the 27th of December was first reported by the Yorkshire Evening Post and saw Syron “instantly blinded”, hence the severity of the possible sentence.
Per the YEP once again the attacker, Gareth Dean, appeared in court yesterday to admit his guilt regarding the offences which are listed as ‘causing GBH with intent’.
Sentencing will happen in early March with Dean set to remain on remand until then after having been previously remanded since the incident that happened in the early hours of the 27th following a Boxing Day night out.
Two prior GBH convictions further add to the possible severity of Dean’s sentence, something noted by Judge Tom Bayliss KC.
He told Dean: “You well understand that you are in serious trouble indeed. It’s not the first time you have committed offences of violence that have caused serious injuries.
“I don’t want you to be under any misapprehension as to the peril you’re in, in terms of sentencing.”
Leeds Rhinos offer message of support for former player
Matty Syron was part of the Leeds Rhinos system when Brad Singleton was emerging. Singleton played over 170 games for Leeds after graduating through their academy. Credit: Richard Long/News Images
With the news of the awful attack suffered by Matty Syron being documented publicly, Leeds Rhinos were quick to offer their support and well wishes.
The club took to X to make the following statement: “Wishing our former academy player Matty Syron all the best as he recovers from this horrific attack.”
At the time there was an outpouring of support for Syron on social media with many calling on the RFL’s charity Rugby League Cares to get involved and help out Syron.
The former Rhino lives in Australia and had been visiting on holiday when the attack happened and all at Serious About Rugby League wish him the best in his continued recovery.
Syron came through the Rhinos academy at the same time as former Wigan Warriors and current Salford Red Devils star Brad Singleton and former Hull KR, Warrington Wolves and current Leigh Leopards prop Rob Mulhern.
He had told the BBC how the attack had been soul-destroying, explaining:”It has been dreadful, not just for me but for my family.
“It’s the worst possible thing that can happen to someone.
“This has brought me to my knees, it’s really put me in a bad place. It’s soul-destroying.”
