Kevin Brown calls for Super League to emulate rugby union over controversy

During Round One of the Betfred Super League, Castleford Tigers‘ player Liam Watts was sent off as they played against Super League champions Wigan Warriors at the Jungle, which was extremely wet and muddy.

Some people have raised questions about the referees and video referees’ decisions following the introduction of new rules in 2024. During the match, Kaide Ellis made contact with an opponent’s head, but he wasn’t given a card because his back was bent.

In another incident, Harry Smith was sin binned for accidentally tipping Luke Hooley onto his head during a tackle. However, the most significant moment occurred when Liam Watts was sent off for making direct contact with an opponent’s head during a tackle on Tyler Dupree. Although Dupree was ducking down, Watts’ shoulder made contact with his head, resulting in his dismissal.

This divided opinion but on BBC Two, Kevin Brown was quick to suggest that rugby league should emulate rugby union. Brown said: “I like the situation in Union when they give a yellow card and that gives them time to look at all the angles and make the right decision.”

Super League trend

In 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, in accordance with 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 additional cards were shown at the game at the Jungle.