“Robbed” – Rival fans furious as Leeds Rhinos star escapes punishment

Rival fans are furious that Leeds Rhinos star James Bentley has avoided a card in the club’s clash with last year’s Grand Finalists Catalans Dragons.

The incident came after eight minutes following a chip to the right corner where Leeds Rhinos star James Bentley was on hand to swoop on the ball and Tariq Sims was on hand to swoop on him catching him round the head. Bentley tried to break free of the tackle, he caught Sims with an elbow in the head.

Given recent events, Headingley expected cards for both but instead Chris Kendall maintained the sanctity of the game and both stayed on the field leading to chants from Chris Kendall.

However, Sims will have been irked by the fact he was later sin binned for catching Harry Newman high as he scored despite the new RFL rules.

This has only led to more dismay from rival fans on social media. One fan said: “How’s Bentley not been given at least 10.”

Another said: “Catalans getting robbed. Bentley no bin for attacking the head then Sims gets one for grabbing the head when trying to stop a try.”

One fan said: “Deliberate elbow to the face is now acceptable I see?”

Some fans were divided on social media. On Facebook on the same post one fan said: “Should have been a red” whilst others said: “Excellent decision”, “great comment sense”, and “the right call.”

It was great to see an official allow the game to flow rather than going straight for cards. For that at least, Kendall should be commended.

Big test for Leeds Rhinos

This was always going to be a big test for the Rhinos. The off-season signings of the likes of Brodie Croft, Andy Ackers and Lachie Miller there was a lot of hype and in Round One the Rhinos didn’t really live up to it.

Now that comes with a massive cavate which is the weather which doesn’t lend itself to the flair of these players. Likewise, the injuries in the pack somewhat caps what the Rhinos can do going forward.

Those problems plagued Leeds again against Hull KR. The Rhinos arguably should have been 18-0 up for Hull KR scored given the weight of possession and territory they had and they would pay the price for not making it count losing the game.

This has led to huge pressure on this game against what many would regard as a real title contender. Can Leeds prove they belong in that conversation too?