RFL explain decision not to charge Hull KR man despite red card

Hull KR saw star prop Sauaso Sue controversially sent off on Friday night against Leeds Rhinos, however, the forward has escaped a ban and the RFL have now explained why.

The Robins beat Leeds Rhinos at Headingley in a dramatic clash which saw them come from 14-6 down to win 20-14 with three tries coming in the final 12 minutes.

Ironically, it was Sue’s red card which seemed to spark that comeback with Willie Peters admitting that Hull KR played better with 12 men on the field, however, he disagreed with the decision to send Sue off.

Asked about it post-match, the Australian bluntly declared: “It’s not a send off. Not a send off at all… Definitely not a red card.”

Jon Wilkin was another to hold that opinion with the pundit launching a scathing attack at the decision but the RFL have now had their own say with the Match Review Panel ruling on all matters disciplinary from Round Nine.

Despite 18 players being charged, Sue was not one of them and the RFL have now explained their decision.

Why Hull KR star Sauaso Sue was not banned

Of the 18 players charged, none were banned but Ash Handley and Jack Sinfield both picked up Grade B charges for their red and yellow cards respectively against Hull KR.

Those charges carry three penalty points, though Handley actually sees one point deducted by way of ‘time served’ due to the red card meaning it somewhat benefited him.

As for Sue, it’s been confirmed to Serious About Rugby League that no charges were brought due to the rapid loss of height by the ball carrier Sam Lisone.

It was judged that Sue “did all that could reasonably have been expected to adjust” with the forward lowering his height also but simply not having time to react to the falling Leeds forward.

It’s a major boost for Hull KR as all penalty points matter in 2025 given the new disciplinary system with each charge adding to a player’s record and remaining on record for 12 months.

Currently, Sue has just 1.5 points on his record meaning he is still 4.5 away from a ban. No Hull KR player has more than 2.5 points, which both Eribe Doro and Micky McIlorum have on their record.

Of the 18 charges handed out in Round Nine, 11 were Grade B charges and nine were Grade A. Four went to Wakefield Trinity and Catalans Dragons after they contested a golden point thriller in Perpignan, whilst Leeds and Hull FC also saw three players charged.