The rules two Super League coaches could have broken as they face punishment

Yesterday it was confirmed by BBC Sport that Salford Red Devils coach Paul Rowley and St Helens boss Paul Wellens would be facing the Rugby Football League’s Compliance Board.

This is because of recent comments made by the pair.

After their Challenge Cup semi-final defeat to Leigh Leopards in which the seasons of Alex Walmsley and Agnatius Paasi were ruled out for the rest of the season due to some controversial tackles from Leigh Leopards star John Asiata and Paul Wellens claimed that the RFL failed to protect the players.

Meanwhile, Paul Rowley has found himself in hot water after calling official Jack Smith a “disgrace” following the Red Devils’ defeat to Leigh Leopards.

He said:

“It’s so hard. If we’d have won the game, I’d come in and say probably exactly the same thing. I thought the officials were a disgrace. I think Jack, I’ve watched him on telly, he’s been a disgrace a few times this year, one for us at Warrington at home. So three games in a row now we’ve been absolutely let down.

“So clearly Kendall and Liam Moore are the best two refs who get all the cup finals, we don’t get them too much so we must be deemed poor quality games.

“It’s kind of gloves off, I’m usually quite measured and take my time I don’t like to criticise because we’ve lost obviously, but again, I’d have said the same thing in victory.”

You may question why they now face punishment and what rule they may have broken.

Well we have got you covered. The following explains what rules they could be in violation:

Under the Respect Policy (page 397 of operational rules)

‘General Principles’

“Rugby League prides itself on being a family game which is inclusive, uncompromising and passionate. The principles of RESPECT and Enjoy the Game Campaign, set out the obligations on all people engaged in the Sport in any capacity to maintain the game’s high standards.”

‘Coach’ Section (Page 398)

“Encourage players to respect and accept the judgement of the Match Officials.

“Never engage in any conduct that could lead a Match Official to not Enjoy the Game.

“Never engage in public criticism of officials.

“Never engage in discriminatory or unacceptable conduct of any sort including swearing, obscene gestures, offensive remarks, taunting or other actions that are demeaning or disrespectful to other players, officials or supporters. Treat others as you would like to be treated.

“As the coach, conduct yourself at all times and in all situations, in a manner that demonstrates leadership, respect for the game of Rugby League and respect for all those that are involved in the game – the players, officials, the fans, the parents, the referees and the media.”

Page 119 –  Obligation of Persons subject to Operational Rules

Sub-heading: – ‘Criticism of Match Officials/Operational Rules Tribunal and Match Review Panel Members’

C2:12 – “No Person subject to these Operational Rules shall make any public statement (written or oral) or cause to be published or post online material or content which contains criticism of the character of a Match Official or criticism of the manner in which a Match Official has officiated at a Match (whether a Match in with the Club or Player has taken part, or any other game under the control or subject to the jurisdiction of the RFL).

C2:13 – “No Person subject to these Operational Rules shall make any public statement (written or oral) or cause to be published or post online material or content which contains criticism of the Operational Rules Tribunal or Match Review Panel or a member of the Operational Rules Tribunal or Match Review Panel (when acting in that capacity) or criticism of the manner in which the Operational Rules Tribunal of Match Review Panel or a member of the same has heard or decided any disciplinary matter.”