“It’s about what’s right!” – Derek Beaumont speaks out on John Asiata charge

Last night many people expected two appeals in the latest big night for Super League disciplinary at the Operational Rules Tribunal seemed set to hear the cases of Hull FC star Jack Ashworth and Leigh Leopards skipper John Asiata a saga that has now drawn the response of Derek Beaumont.

Ashworth challenged his three match ban for accidental head on head contact with Catalans Dragons as Hull FC lost to Catalans Dragons. The incident saw him sin binned in the game.

Speaking of sin bins, John Asiata was sin binned for his low tackle against St Helens in Round Two after only 40 seconds. This came after the Leigh Leopards skipper injured two St Helens players last year with a similar tackle technique which prompted it to be outlawed in 2024.

That being said, there is an argument to be made that the incident this time didn’t meet the specified parameters for foul play as outlined by Brian Carney on Sky Sports.

Even though this incident happened in Round Two, Asiata’s injury has allowed Leigh Leopards to be able to appeal the decision at a later date.

Jack Ashworth appeal verdict

Last night the operational rules tribunal heard the case of Jack Ashworth. Ashworth pleaded guilty to the offence but challenged the Grade D grading which was set to see him miss three games including this week’s clash with the Leigh Leopards and the Challenge Cup Round Six tie with Huddersfield Giants but crucially also the Hull derby against Hull KR.

Ashworth and Hull FC were successful in their appeal with the offence downgraded to Grade C which only carried two games which means he can return for the game against Hull KR in Round Six of the Betfred Super League.

But what about John Asiata’s appeal?

Derek Beaumont speaks out on Leigh Leopards star

The appeal for Asiata was postponed until next week due to both the RFL and the Leigh Leopards having prior commitments according to owner Derek Beaumont.

This came as Derek Beaumont himself spoke out about Asiata and the charge on X.

Responding to a fan, he explained why the Leopards are appealing a charge which carried no suspension.

He said: “Sometimes in life principal is important and it’s about what’s right. A Grade A with NFA is like less than getting 10 lines at school back in the day which was the lowest sanction it’s the RFL trying to back the decision of the video ref as on field didn’t even call it!

“It’s labelling John and I have a solid defence to it which will succeed and if it doesn’t I will share for wider opinion with all the facts I present. That will be next week now though as both sides busy for tomorrow.”