Warrington CEO slams Tim Sheens ‘poor form’ comments

Warrington Wolves Chief Executive Karl Fitzpatrick has hit out at Hull KR head coach Tim Sheens for his comments after Saturday’s game at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.

In a feisty opening to the Super League clash, Warrington half-back Blake Austin was sent to the sin bin for a challenge on Rovers captain Joel Tomkins.

The hit on the ground resulted in Tomkins playing no further part in the game, before he was taken straight to hospital with a severe concussion.

Austin then returned to the field to help the Wolves claim their second successive victory and in his post-match interview Sheens was clearly unhappy.

“I think the player concerned may have a little worry this week,” he said.

“It’s a tough one for referees because he doesn’t know he’s hit him that hard he has put him in hospital, and it doesn’t matter if you are lying on the ground or running through, if you get hit flush on the head you are going to have a problem.”

Austin was not cited for the incident by the disciplinary panel and has avoided suspension, with the yellow card given during the game deemed sufficient.

And speaking to the Warrington Guardian, Wolves Chief Executive Fitzpatrick took the opportunity to have a dig at the former Australian Kangaroos boss.

“I thought it was poor form from Tim Sheens to comment on something he didn’t have a good look at post-game,” he said.

“Perhaps he thought it might influence the Match Review Panel. If so, it was obviously unsuccessful.”

The reverse fixture between the sides takes place in just over two months at KCOM Craven Park, on Monday 22 April, where there is sure to be an added edge to the game.