The match review panel have made their decisions on the Wigan Warriors, Leigh Leopards, St Helens and Hull KR players involved in the Challenge Cup semi-finals at Leeds Rhinos’ Headingley Stadium and the Halliwell Jones Stadium, home to the Warrington Wolves.
There were plenty of controversial moments in the two enthralling semi-finals so the match review panel was always going to have to answer some big questions as the met today and they have provided their answers.
One of these questions was focused on Sione Mata’utia after his yellow card for a late hit on Ben Reynolds which was doubly punished given that the resulting penalty proved to be the difference on the scoreboard.
He has been given a two match ban after the hit was deemed “a high tackle” and was deemed to be “reckless.”
This was the same for Joe Shorrocks after his red card for Wigan Warriors against Hull KR when he hit Mikey Lewis on the chin.
This came as Shorrocks looked to make a big tackle but his shoulder caught him.
He was also banned for what was described as a “reckless” high tackle but he only receives a one match ban.
Edwin Ipape of the Leigh Leopards has also been banned for “striking.”
Interestingly another player has been charged but from the Championship in the shape of Rob Butler.
The London Broncos forward, formerly of Wakefield Trinity and Warrington Wolves, faces a mammoth ban after being referred to tribunal for biting.
It will be interesting to see what the panel says about this incident tomorrow night when the incident is addressed.
Following the Betfred Challenge Cup Semi Finals, the Match Review Panel have issued the following sanctions:
Sione Mata’utia (St Helens) – Grade C High Tackle – 2 Match Penalty Notice
Edwin Ipape (Leigh Leopards) – Grade B Strikes – 1 Match Penalty Notice
Joe Shorrocks (Wigan Warriors) – Grade C High Tackle – 1 Match Penalty Notice
Rob Butler* (London Broncos) – Grade F Biting – Refer to Tribunal
The following player has received a caution
Matt Parcell (Hull KR) – Dangerous Contact
*Player charged with further to additional informational provided after Thursday’s Match Review Panel meeting.
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