Hull FC star Jack Ashworth was charged after he was perhaps harshly sin binned against Catalans Dragons for an accidental head contact.
But in the eyes of Sky Sports commentator Barrie McDermott in this modern day and age, Ashworth was “lucky” and “fortunate” to not receive a red card.
Now though the Match Review Panel have issued him with a harsh three match ban which will see the forward miss out on some crucial games as the valiant Hull FC try and get their season up and running.
Hull FC issue statement on Ashworth suspension
Following the news on Monday afternoon, Hull FC, like other clubs, made a statement confirming the suspension and confirming Jack Ashworth would miss three games including the derby and the Challenge Cup.
This statement, it would appeared to suggest that the club are accepting the suspension and not appealing it given they are saying he will serve the ban.
The statement Hull FC made reads: “One Hull FC player has been charged by the Match Review Panel following Saturday’s Betfred Super League Round 4 fixture against Catalans Dragons.
“Jack Ashworth has been charged with a Grade D offence of ‘head contact’.
“Ashworth has been served with a three-match penalty notice, and a £250 fine, and will be unavailable for upcoming fixtures against Leigh Leopards (H), Hull KR (A), and the club’s Betfred Challenge Cup Sixth Round fixture.”
The Black and Whites though can decide appeal all the way until Tuesday at midday and there are reports that they will be appealing the decision in the Hull Daily Mail.
A harsh suspension
Many people in the sport will view the suspension handed out to Jack Ashworth and St Helens centre Mark Percival for something similar.
This is because Ashworth clearly had no malicious intent other than to make a big tackle on a big opponent, former Hull FC star Chris Satae.
In the past the tackle would be commended but these days, because it’s a changed world, it receives a crucial yellow card and a three match ban which is devastating for Ashworth and the injury hit Hull FC.
But perhaps the head injury to Chris Satae proves the need to punish these tackles but perhaps, especially for an accident like this, an on field punishment like a yellow card should suffice.
