Leeds Rhinos have lost two more forwards as their problems in the pack persist at the start of the Super League season.
They lost to James Donaldson to a two match ban after a high tackle on Oliver Gildart against Hull KR. His teammate Sam Lisone has also been hit with three match ban for a similar tackle with arguably less mitigating circumstances which would explain the three matches however it could be argued that there was less direct force.
Both men have been hit with £250 fines on top of these bans as well. Making matters worse, Leeds are sweating over the fitness of props Kieran Hudson, Tom Holroyd and Mikolaj Oledzki as well as second-rower James McDonnell with Morgan Gannon out for three months.
The club issued the following statement: “The Rhinos duo of James Donaldson and Sam Lisone have both received bans from the Match Review Panel following the latest round of games in the Betfred Super League.
“Both players were sin binned during the defeat at Hull KR last Thursday and now face further sanctions. Both players have received a Grade D charge but Donaldson has received a two game ban whilst Lisone’s is a three game ban. Both players have received a £250 fine in addition.
“The club have not confirmed yet with either player will appeal their sanction.”
So, they have not decided yet if they will appeal.
Leeds Rhinos agree partnership
Yesterday (Sunday 25 February) players representing all its teams in rugby league and netball joined with the bus operator to hold a taster session outside Leeds Art Gallery to entice new fans to discover more about how the games are played in different forms.
The square in front of the gallery was turned into an arena for people to try wheelchair rugby and netball.
First Bus has become its official One Team, Team Rhinos Bus Partner and will work with the Leeds Rhinos Foundation to support initiatives taking rugby league and netball into the community.
First Bus employees will also volunteer alongside players from all the club’s squads to bring both sports to a wider audience and encourage participation and grow spectator attendance at matches.
The One Team, Team Rhinos has been emblazoned on a double-decker bus that will take the club’s message throughout Leeds. The branded bus features the faces of well-known players including including Cameron Smith (Men’s Rugby), Geva Mentor (Netball), Hanna Butcher (Women’s Rugby), Mitch Woodham (Learning Disability Rugby), Tommy Pouncey (Physical Disability Rugby) and Jodie Boyd Ward (Wheelchair Rugby).
Ben Turnbull, Business Development Manager of Leeds Rhinos, said: “Our partnership with First Bus is built on shared values and objectives, celebrating inclusivity and engaging with our communities. The people of Leeds are so important to Leeds Rhinos and First Bus, and holding an event in the city with players from each team attending is the perfect way to launch the partnership and unveil the amazing One Team, Team Rhinos branded bus.”
Lucy Mottram, Marketing Manager of First Bus in West Yorkshire, added: “This builds on our strong partnership with the club and takes our support in a new direction.
“First Bus is working to develop a more diverse workforce that is representative of the communities we serve, so joining with the Leeds Rhinos in a shared objective to highlight the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the city is an opportunity from which we can both benefit.”
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