The match review panel have met after the Challenge Cup Final between Hull KR and Leigh Leopards and the postponed Super League clash between St Helens and Huddersfield Giants.
In total five players have landed themselves in hot water but only one from the final on Saturday.
Unsurprisingly, that individual was Elliot Minchella who was sin binned during the final becoming the first player in 22 years to suffer that fate in a Challenge Cup Final.
The last yellow card shown in a Challenge Cup Final was back in 2001. This had the unwanted distinction of the first yellow card shown at the new Wembley.
He received a one match ban for the offence which wasn’t as severe as the punishment which St Helens star Matty Lees received for a “reckless” high tackle against Huddersfield Giants.
He was banned for two games for this offence.
The Match Review Panel made the following notes:
“Law 15.1 (b)
High Tackle – Reckless – tried to tackle but reckless about outcome.
Grade C.”
Many may question why Chris Hill then avoided a ban for a high tackle, well he was saved by a dipping ball carrier:
“Law 15.1 (b)
High Tackle – Careless – Ball Carrier Dips
Grade A.”
Hill was also cited for another high tackle but escaped punishment due to “inconclusive footage.”
Thus he escapes without a ban or even a fine due to only a Grade A charge so he will be able to play in a must win match against Salford Red Devils this week.
Matty Lees meanwhile will miss out as Saints try to take a top two spot before the end of the season.
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
Rugby League on TV
How to watch Rugby League on TV this week as BBC show four epic fixtures
