Super League

Four Super League clubs appeal controversial suspensions

by
Cam Pattison
February 20, 2024

The Match Review Panel of the RFL has announced the charges for the first round of the Betfred Super League season.

Hull FC’s Franklin Pele is expected to receive a long ban as he faces the tribunal for his red card against Hull KR. His swinging arm led to his dismissal. Meanwhile, Catalans Dragons’ Michael McIlorum could be banned for up to six matches for his red card against Warrington Wolves, and Castleford Tigers’ Liam Watts may face a long-term ban as well.

The RFL has stated that recommended punishments are provided for offences graded A-D. Players and their clubs can challenge these at an Operational Rules Tribunal on Tuesday evening. For charges of Grade E and F, the player must appear at an ORT on Tuesday evening. Therefore, the cases of the three players charged with Grade E offences will be heard tonight, along with the appeal of Ryan Brierley.

Since the RFL has strong evidence against all three players, it is likely that they will receive some form of suspension. This will increase the number of players banned to 12 after just one round of the competition.

Super League clubs appeal suspension

Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com – 14/07/2023 – Rugby League – Betfred Super League Round 19 – Leeds Rhinos v Hull KR – Headingley Stadium, Leeds, England – Hull KR’s Matt Parcell.

An RFL spokesperson has confirmed the cases that will be heard at tribunal tonight. Among them is Franklin Pele, Liam Watts and Michael McIlorum due to their Grade E offences.

However, the RFL have confirmed that appeals will be heard from Hull FC for Ligi Sao, Hull KR for Matt Parcell, Salford Red Devils for Ryan Brierley and Catalans Dragons for Paul Seguier.

The list can be seen below:

Tonight: Pele (Hull FC), Watts (Castleford), McIlorum (Catalans) – all referrals

Sao (Hull FC), Parcell (Hull KR), Brierley (Salford), Seguier (Catalans) – all challenges

Meanwhile, tomorrow: Broadbent, (Barrow), Hartshorn, (Cornwall), Lewis (Siddal), Roberts (Featherstone) – all referrals

Lino (Wakefield), O’Keefe (Oldham) – both challenges

Meanwhile, with Leigh Leopards having no game this weekend any challenges from Leigh (Amone/Leutele) will be heard Tuesday 27 Feb. So, it is going to be a busy few days.