RFL issue statement on controversial Super League disciplinary

The Super League disciplinary has released its verdict after the first round of matches in the new season. The Match Review Panel has reviewed the first six games of the season, paying particular attention to head contact in light of the new rules.

The first instance of the new rules came in the opening game, where Hull FC and Hull KR collided. Herman Ese’ese was given a yellow card, leaving Hull FC with 12 men. Franklin Pele was later sent off for a swinging arm, which could have arguably resulted in a red card in any era.

Ligi Sao was also sent off for direct contact to the head with the knee, after retaliating to Matt Parcell, who was sin binned and could have also faced disciplinary action.

The new rules were also in play during the game between Salford Red Devils and Leeds Rhinos, where Ryan Brierley was sin binned for a high tackle. Paul Momirovski, his opponent, could have also faced disciplinary action for a shoulder charge.

The biggest talking point was the sending off of Liam Watts, under the new rules, for Castleford Tigers, while Wigan Warriors duo Kaide Ellis and Harry Smith escaped that fate. Catalans Dragons star Michael McIlorum was not so lucky and was also sent off.

This built to the question: who has been punished this week by the Match Review Panel?

In total 16 players have been charged following the games in round one with a number set to head to tribunal to face their charges. With nine players banned and three more likely to join them after tribunal.

RFL issue statement on controversial Super League bans

Robert Hicks, the RFL’s Director of Operations and Legal, said: “As we have outlined in various forums in the build-up to the Betfred Super League season, there have been a number of changes to the Head Contact Sanctioning Framework for 2024 – and Match Officials and the Match Review Panel share the responsibility for implementing these changes.

“The number of yellow and red cards shown in the opening round of the Betfred Super League has already become a talking point, and doubtless the number of charges arising from the MRP meeting will be similar – but it is important to provide some context.

“Of the 13 cards shown, 10 of the incidents would have led to a card being shown under the framework that applied in 2023.

“One area which has made a difference is in head on head contact, and the responsibility of attacking and tackling players in this area.

“Just as the sport should be grateful to the commitment of Match Officials and the MRP in implementing change at such a pivotal period for the sport, we also reiterate our gratitude to clubs, coaches and players for their positive approach over recent months.

“It was a highly successful opening round of Betfred Super League fixtures, and it is right that the focus is already turning to the second round of matches, and also the Betfred World Club Challenge.”