Round 18 of the Betfred Super League was a huge weekend in the context of the season with a vital win for Leeds Rhinos whilst Wigan Warriors were stunned by Wakefield Trinity in a weekend that Hull FC avenged their humiliation against Hull KR earlier this year and Warrington Wolves and St Helens collided in a classic game on Sky Sports.
However, unfortunately a topic dominating discussion was the officials.
Andy Last was left confused by a number of decisions as Castleford Tigers lost to Leigh Leopards and Salford Red Devils boss Paul Rowley wasn’t impressed by the officials either.
“It was difficult to watch. I think we took big steps forwards in terms of performance and it was good game to watch in some respects,” he said on BBC Radio Manchester.
“I thought there were some really big inconsistencies in officiating but for both sides I will say.
“So it is not bitterness in defeat. So, it was very frustrating and I know Rohan was as well so yeah it was a tough loss but we will take a lot of positives out of.
“I am not a coach who accepts mediocracy so there is definitely some steps forward.”
However, he was critical but some comments on social media took things to another level and former official Ian Smith was left dismayed by it all.
He took to social media:
“Some of the abuse on here this evening has been really disappointing to read. Criticise, debate, have conflicting opinions by all means but it shouldn’t get to where some fans are openly encouraging and fuelling personal abuse of match officials. Very sad.”
Some of the abuse on here this evening Rod has been really disappointing to read. Criticise, debate, have conflicting opinions by all means but it shouldn’t get to where some fans are openly encouraging and fuelling personal abuse of match officials. Very sad
— Ian Smith (@Iansmith2468) July 9, 2023
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