In the first round of the Betfred Super League, there was a controversial incident when Castleford Tigers’ player Liam Watts was sent off for direct contact with the head. Meanwhile, Wigan Warriors, the reigning Super League champions, played in heavy rain at the Jungle, which was more like a swamp.
Adding to the controversy, Michael McIlorum, another Super League star, was also shown a red card for a similar offence against Warrington Wolves. The referees were noted for their strict interpretation of the rules in 2024, with “force” being a key factor and “no mitigation” allowed.
Speaking on BBC, Kevin Brown agreed with the decision, “That’s a definite red. He makes direct contact with the head. I don’t think he can have any complaints.
Some fans have questioned the consistency of the officiating, as Kaide Ellis was not carded despite making contact with an opponent’s head, while Harry Smith was sin-binned for accidentally tipping his opponent onto his head.
The major incident occurred when Liam Watts was sent off for direct contact with the head of Tyler Dupree, who was ducking down as Watts went to make a tackle with Joe Westerman. Castleford Tigers Head Coach Craig Lingard was seen reacting angrily to the decision, while Danny McGuire also expressed disbelief.
Despite the controversy, Wigan managed to take a 16-4 halftime lead with tries from Patrick Mago and Bevan French and went on to win 32-4.
Super League cards following trend
Castleford Mend A Hose Jungle EnglandIn the opening game between Hull FC and Hull KR, Herman Ese’ese was the first player to receive a sin bin penalty for a high shot according to the new rules. Following this, Franklin Pele was sent off for a swinging arm, and Ligi Sao was also sent off, while Matt Parcell was sin binned.
In the match at Headingley, Ryan Brierley received a sin bin penalty for a high tackle on his friend Brodie Croft. Similarly, in the game between Leigh Leopards and Huddersfield Giants, Ricky Leutele was sin binned for a late hit, and John Asiata was also shown a yellow card. After the dismissal of Momirovski, Amir Bourouh of Salford became the ninth player to be carded. Two more cards were shown in the game at the Jungle.
Then the Dragons saw McIlorum red carded and in the same game Jordy Crowther was sin binned twice.
