One offence, three players charged but only one banned – here’s why

After fiery clashes as Leeds Rhinos defeated Salford Red Devils, as Hull KR and Hull FC collided and Warrington Wolves battled with St Helens, people expected a busy week from the match review panel but only five players have been charged including stars from Wigan Warriors, St Helens, Wakefield Trinity and Catalans Dragons.

Surprisingly, only one player was banned and that was Salford’s Oliver Partington.

He was banned for Grade B dangerous contact and three of the five charges were for dangerous contact.

Thus, some may question why Partington was the only ones banned.

Below is what the panel said about each offence:

Oliver Partington Grade B – 2 match Ban

Dangerous Contact – A defending player makes contact with an opponent after the ball has
been released by an opponent in a vulnerable position which causes flexion to the head,
neck or spinal column on an attacking player, which poses an unacceptable risk of injury to
that player.

Jai Whitbread Grade B – £250 Fine

Dangerous Contact – A defending player makes contact with an opponent after the ball has
been released by an opponent in a vulnerable position which causes flexion to the head,
neck or spinal column on an attacking player, which poses an unacceptable risk of injury to
that player.

Brad O’Neill Grade A – £250 Fine

Dangerous Contact – A defending player makes contact with an opponent after the ball has
been released by an opponent in a vulnerable position which causes flexion to the head,
neck or spinal column on an attacking player, which poses an unacceptable risk of injury to
that player.

You’ll notice Whitbread and Partington have been charged with the same offence but different punishments.

This is likely due to Partington’s prior record.