In the new IMG era where Grading is to be introduced, it isn’t just about on-field performance for rugby league clubs with social media a huge facet, however, Champions side Swinton Lions have found themselves being investigated by the RFL over their actions online.
The Championship and League One competitions are yet to start with the revamped 1895 Cup and early rounds of the Challenge Cup taking place over the past six weeks instead.
One of the teams that had been in good form with two wins in each competition, as well as a pre-season victory over St Helens, was Swinton Lions.
The Lions had topped their group in the 1895 Cup and beaten amateur side West Hull and then a very strong Oldham in the Challenge Cup.
Their winning run ended when they lost to Bradford Bulls in the 1895 Cup quarter-finals this past weekend, the Bulls beating Swinton Lions 21-12.
It was an intense cup tie with the prize being a semi-final against Wakefield Trinity which made the loss even more agonising, however, the Lions have since landed in hot water for their post-match actions.
Taking to X, formerly Twitter, Swinton Lions posted a video that seemed to highlight several officiating decisions that the club may have perceived as errors.
That post has since been deleted but Serious About Rugby League understands that the RFL have been aware of the post and will be contacting Swinton Lions.
Swinton Lions look to land another Challenge Cup upset
Dec Patton has been of the star signings that Swinton Lions have made for 2024.
That loss against Bradford will be in the rearview mirror for the Lions though as they have a crucial Challenge Cup tie this weekend against Sheffield Eagles.
Should the Lions land the upset win then they’ll be in the pot for the Round Six draw that is set to take place on Monday 11th March with the 12 Super League sides set to enter the competition.
So far Swinton have beaten West Hull and Sean Long’s incredibly strong Oldham side who had been made favourites for the clash despite being a division below the Lions.
In Sheffield Eagles, the Lions face a stiff task but they will have home advantage as they look to defeat Mark Aston’s side whom they beat 30-22 in July last year.
Since then the Lions have strengthened with Dec Patton arriving from Bradford Bulls whilst they’ve also signed ex-Salford winger Rhys Williams.
Swinton’s clash with Sheffield will be shown on BBC iPlayer and Red Button for a 1.30pm kick-off.
