Why Salford Red Devils star avoid ban despite being cited for “dangerous contact” as Wigan Warriors man less lucky

As we’ve seen already today, a dangerous contact citation can lead to a hefty ban.

Wigan Warriors’ Liam Byrne has picked up a two-match suspension for two separate instances of “dangerous contact” whilst almost all of the cautions and bans this week were due to dangerous contact.

Meanwhile Salford Red Devils’ King Vuniyayawa was also cited in the disciplinary minutes for dangerous contact.

The incident ocurred in Fiji’s win over Italy on Saturday at Kingston Park in Newcastle.

However, unlike Byrne and co, Vuniyayawa avoid a ban which means he can help Fiji try and secure a quarter-final spot up against Scotland next week having played in both of Fiji’s games so far this tournament as well as the warm-up defeat to England at his home stadium, Salford’s AJ Bell.

So, why did he avoid a ban?

Well, according to the disciplinary minutes this is why: “Opponent turns and falls into player. Player does not have any grips of the opponent.

“Contact accidental.”

So, a pretty fair reasoning behind the prop avoiding a ban and means he can play a big role as Fiji look to emulate the success they’ve achieved in the last three World Cups and make it to the semi-finals.

Here are the other bans handed out:

· Tui Kamikamica (Fiji): Grade A Dangerous Contact, 1 Match Penalty Notice

· Liam Byrne (Ireland): Grade A Dangerous Contact, 1 Match Penalty Notice

· Jaimin Jolliffe (Ireland): Grade A High tackle, 1 Match Penalty Notice

· Liam Byrne (Ireland): Grade A Dangerous Contact, 1 Match Penalty Notice

The following players received cautions:

· Taniela Sadrugu (Fiji): Dangerous Contact

· Liam Byrne (Ireland): Other Contrary Behaviour