Leeds Rhinos prop’s technique labelled ‘dangerous’ by Jon Wilkin following incident against Salford Red Devils

Leeds Rhinos prop Sam Lisone has had his ball-carrying style questioned by a former Super League player and an ex-referee following another controversial incident.

Lisone’s barnstorming runs have been a great addition to Leeds’ attack this season, but pundit Jon Wilkin has labelled his technique ‘dangerous’.

Following one of his runs in the Rhinos’ victory over Salford Red Devils, Salford forward Jack Ormonroyd was left lying on the ground and then went off for an HIA, which he later passed.

However, whilst it’s undeniable that these runs are part of Lisone’s trademark, Wilkin questioned his style, despite there being no malice behind his technique.

He said: “It raises the question. We talk about head injuries, and the duty of care is with the guy defending.

“But, I’m just saying, Sam Lisone has knocked five blokes out this year by doing that. The match review panel, I think, needs to look at the technique. There’s certainly no malice in it whatsoever; it’s just dangerous, that’s all.

“The technique from Lisone. He turns into contact and lifts his arm up, which is heavily padded. He’s done that five times this year, but there hasn’t been any action. I’m not saying there’s any venom in it, he’s not intended to hurt anyone, but it’s dangerous.”

Former Super League referee agrees with Wilkin’s comments on Leeds Rhinos prop’s technique

These thoughts were also echoed online by former Super League referee Richard Silverwood.

Speaking on X, Silverwood also thought it was worth reviewing, stating that if Lisone was the defender going into the tackle in the same way, he’d be at fault.

He said: “It’s a fair discussion around Sam Lisone’s carries. As a defender, you would get penalised every time, so why is it ok carrying the ball?

“Bizarre how things get penalised like the Bentley tackle there, that’s not a high tackle but brushes his neck going down, and Lisone can fire into a defender sideways using his shoulder.”

However, it’s such a signature part of his game that would definitely have a huge impact on how the Leeds Rhinos prop plays the game.