After the first Challenge Cup Final since 1986 without Leeds Rhinos, Wigan Warriors, Warrington Wolves and St Helens between Leigh Leopards and Hull KR and a fiery Super League clash between St Helens and Huddersfield Giants, the Match Review Panel met.
Unsurprisingly, the bulk of their job was focused on the game at the Totally Wicked Stadium where Matty English was sin binned for a cannon ball tackle and Joe Greenwood was sent off for leading with the elbow.
Neither of them were banned however. Greenwood was fined whilst English was cautioned.
The ban arising from that game went to Matty Lees for a high tackle.
Meanwhile, the other ban went to the unfortunate man to become the first player to sin binned in a Challenge Cup Final since 2001 and the first player sin binned at the new Wembley in the shape of Elliot Minchella of Hull KR.
However, the disciplinary’s job didn’t end there. Tonight they heard the operational rules tribunal for former Wakefield Trinity winger and Bradford Bulls star Jorge Taufua for biting.
This had been postponed last week to this week.
The winger has been handed a mammoth six match ban for biting but had the grading reduced from Grade F to Grade E.
The club made the following statement:
“Bradford Bulls can confirm Jorge Taufua has been handed a six match ban (Grade E downgraded from Grade F) following tonight’s tribunal.”
CEO Jason Hirst said:- “The club are naturally disappointed at tonight’s outcome. We won’t be making any further comment at this stage.”
We could have another tribunal tomorrow should any Super League players choose to challenge their suspension.
Following the Betfred Challenge Cup Final and latest Betfred Super League fixture, the Match Review Panel have issued the following sanctions:
Elliott Minchella (Hull KR) – Grade B Other Contrary Behaviour – 1 Match Penalty Notice
Chris Hill (Huddersfield Giants) – Grade A High Tackle – Not Applicable
Matty Lees (St Helens) – Grade C High Tackle – 2 Match Penalty Notice
Joe Greenwood (Huddersfield Giants) – Grade B Striking – £250 Fine
Olly Russell (Huddersfield Giants) – Grade B Dangerous Contact – £250 Fine
The following player was handed a caution:
Matty English (Huddersfield Giants) – Dangerous Contact
