Leigh Leopards star Tom Amone was found not guilty of his Grade F unacceptable language charge on Tuesday night.
The Leopards released the following statement on Twitter:
“OFFICIAL STATEMENT: Leigh’s Tom Amone, who was referred to the independent tribunal on a Grade F charge of using Unacceptable Language, was found not guilty. The definition of ‘Unacceptable Language’ is stated on page 8 of the RFL’s Operational Rules.”
OFFICIAL STATEMENT: Leigh’s Tom Amone, who was referred to the independent tribunal on a Grade F charge of using Unacceptable Language, was found not guilty.
*The definition of ‘Unacceptable Language’ is stated on page 8 of the RFL’s Operational Rules. pic.twitter.com/EGoXqgWmXJ— Leigh Leopards (@LeighLeopardsRL) February 14, 2023
The other player involved in the situation who was shown a red card during Ben Currie’s testimonial between the two, Josh McGuire, has been slapped with a six match ban and a £1000 fine.
The RFL released the following statement:
“Warrington Wolves’ Josh McGuire has been found guilty of using Unacceptable Language (disability discrimination) towards an opponent during his side’s recent pre-season game against Leigh Leopards at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.
“McGuire was dismissed during the match and referred to tribunal on a Grade F charge carrying a minimum six-match suspension. He is also fined £1,000 and required to undertake mandatory education.
“Leigh’s Taealoaloa ‘Tom’ Amone, who was also referred to the independent tribunal on a Grade F charge of using Unacceptable Language, was found not guilty.
“The definition of ‘Unacceptable Language’ is stated on page 8 of the RFL’s Operational Rules 2023, associated grading guidelines are set out on page 332 and sentencing guidelines on page 336.”
Now the RFL have released the reasons why he avoided a ban:
“The RFL received a report that Mr Amone had used Unacceptable Language based on disability and sexuality. This was denied by the player.
“The Tribunal heard evidence from two witnesses, however, they could not be sure the words were said and by whom.
“Given that these were the only two players who allegedly heard the Unacceptable Language, but were now unclear in their evidence about who they believed said the words, the MRP did not believe they could progress the case any further.
“The Tribunal agreed with that course and the allegation was dismissed. His reputation remains intact.”
