Super League referee appointments including Hull KR v Leeds Rhinos as official without game after ‘clear error’

The referee appointments for Round Seventeen of Super League have been confirmed including Sunday’s huge clash between Hull KR and Leeds Rhinos, whilst one official has also been taken out of the firing line following a recent error.

A Las Vegas rehearsal is the one of two key fixtures this week, as Willie Peters’ high-flying Robins host Brad Arthur’s Rhinos at Sewell Group Craven Park. 

Meanwhile, across the Pennines is the third rendition of the ‘battle of the borough’ as Wigan Warriors travel to Leigh Leopards as second plays fourth.

The most notable decision regarding officials in Super League this week is the fact that Aaron Moore has no appointment after the error made when serving as a video referee in the game between Castleford Tigers and Wigan Warriors.

Moore ruled that Harry Smith did not pull back Josh Simm, something that head of referees Phil Bentham has now explained was a “clear error” and in line with the consistency of accountability, Moore has been given the week off. Moore was actually the referee for Sunday’s Super League fixture between St Helens and Salford in a game without any contention, however, the decision has been taken to give him a week off.

Who is in charge of this week’s Super League games? 

The round will kick off on Thursday night in Castleford, as they host Huddersfield Giants. Both sides will be looking for a win after defeat in round 16. James Vella will referee the West Yorkshire derby, with Tom Grant as the video ref. 

Friday night sees the first of the two marquee matchups, with Leigh hoping to avenge their poor defensive display against Leeds. They will have to be at their best if they hope to overcome the reigning champions Wigan. Taking up the whistle for this game is Jack Smith, with Chris Kendall on video referee duties. 

The other fixture on Friday night sees struggling Salford host Warrington. It will be the first time since June last year that the sides have met in the league. Liam Rush has been named as the on-field referee with his namesake Liam Moore as the video ref. 

On Saturday, there is a Super League double header. First, Hull FC host St Helens, with Liam Moore changing to on-field referee and Jack Smith heading upstairs to be video ref. 

That is followed by Wakefield Trinity hosting Catalans Dragons. After a strong showing against Hull KR, Daryl Powell’s men will be hopeful of a return to winning ways against an out of form Dragons side. The roles will be reversed from Thursday night, with Grant taking up the whistle, and James Vella on video ref duties. 

On Sunday, the best match of the round is arguably saved until last, with the Rhinos travelling to East Hull to face the league leaders KR. Chris Kendall will be the man in the middle, with Liam Rush acting as video referee.