Verdict of St Helens’ Matty Lees appeal revealed

Over the weekend the focus was on the first Challenge Cup Final without Leeds Rhinos, Wigan Warriors, Warrington Wolves and St Helens since 1986 as Leigh Leopards and Hull KR did battle but there was another game between St Helens and Huddersfield Giants.

This game was postponed from Round One when Saints won the World Club Challenge against Penrith Panthers.

It was a highly controversial clash between the two as Matty English was sin binned for a cannon ball tackle he was later cautioned for.

Then James Greenwood was sent off for leading with the elbow, an offence that he was fined for.

However, Huddersfield boss Ian Watson argued that this incident was caused by the Saints by a high tackle.

The Match Review Panel charged Matty Lees for this handing him a two match ban that the Saints appealed tonight.

However, the appeal was turned down and Lees will remain banned for the next two games.

The RFL made the following statement:

“St Helens’ Matty Lees will miss his side’s next two matches after losing his appeal against a two-match penalty notice.  

“Lees was adjudged to have made a grade C high tackle during Sunday’s Betfred Super League match against Huddersfield Giants. He pleaded not guilty but the independent tribunal upheld the Match Review Panel’s decision. He is also fined £500.”

The other player banned this week, Hull KR’s Elliot Minchella who also became the first player sin binned at the new Wembley and the first player yellow carded in a Challenge Cup Final since 2001, excepted the suspension.

He will miss the game against St Helens this week.

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