Super League Disciplinary: Two clubs set to appeal controversial bans

The rollercoaster that is the Super League disciplinary process took another turn yesterday as it was confirmed that seven players had been charged following Rivals Round with one set to head to tribunal.

That man is Wigan Warriors’ forward Liam Byrne who was hit with a Grade E charge for his red card offence that saw him make head contact with St Helens centre Mark Percival.

Byrne’s Grade E offence will be heard at tonight’s Operational Rules Tribunal where he will learn his fate with Grade E offences carrying punishments ranging from three to five-games banned and a fine.

The Irishman wasn’t the only player banned from that game with two other forwards charged and both for head contact in what was a feisty affair.

Both Tyler Dupree and Matty Lees have been handed Grade C charges, however, the Saints man has been handed a two-game ban compared to Dupree’s one-match ban, which could potentially prompt an appeal from St Helens as they have done previously.

Saints appealed James Bell’s suspension last week in an attempt to ensure the forward would be available for that game but they were unsuccessful in overturning the charge.

Other bans handed down by the Match Review Panel that could be set for an appeal are those handed to Leeds Rhinos’ duo Justin Sangare and Cam Smith with both men handed one-game bans for Grade C and Grade B charges respectively.

As it stands they will both miss the clash against Warrington Wolves who will also be without their star forward Paul Vaughan after the Australian landed a two-game ban for his Grade C charge of dangerous contact.

Harvey Livett was also charged for his Grade B charge of head contact and could well appeal despite not being banned, just as we saw with Leigh Leopards and John Asiata late last month.

It’s certain that Byrne’s case will be heard tonight at tribunal, but have there been any further appeals?

Super League Disciplinary: Two appeals confirmed

Clubs have made their decisions regarding appeals. As already reported, Leeds Rhinos have elected to appeal the suspension of Cameron Smith for dangerous contact. However, they have accepted the suspension of French forward Justin Sangare.

Meanwhile, Wigan Warriors will also be appealing the suspension of Tyler Dupree. The prop was not banned for the yellow card incident but another offence during the game.

Warrington Wolves have accepted the suspension of Paul Vaughan after a tip tackle. He will now miss the games against Leeds and St Helens. Speaking of the Saints, they have accepted the suspension of Matty Lees.

Unsurprisingly, Huddersfield Giants have accepted the fine to Harvey Livett.