RFL panel told to quit by furious Hull KR chairman

EXASPERATED Hull KR chairman Neil Hudgell has called for the “clueless” RFL match review panel to quit.
Hull KR chairman Neil Hudgell.Hull KR chairman Neil Hudgell.
Hull KR chairman Neil Hudgell.

He has grown increasingly perturbed by a number of “inconsistent decisions”, the latest being the three-game ban handed to Rovers prop Justin Poore for a dangerous throw during Sunday’s win over Bradford Bulls.

Three Widnes Vikings players cited for a similar incident in their victory the same day at Hull FC were only handed warnings.

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“It is time the match review panel stood aside as they are not fit for purpose,” said Hudgell.

“This week whilst Justin Poore was cited and suspended for three weeks for a dangerous throw, three Widnes players received cautions for a dangerous throw on Richard Whiting. I invite anyone to review footage of both and point out the difference.

“I believe the throw on Richard Whiting is far worse, yet when being questioned, the review panel explanation was that as they couldn’t spot the culprit, all escaped with a caution.

“On Twitter last (Monday) night, even the referees considered it was an incident possibly worthy of a red card.

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“In a week when a player in Australia suffered a serious neck injury, this reasoning is without logic, damaging and irresponsible. It brings the game into disrepute and challenges the whole integrity of the competition.”

Meanwhile, Castleford Tigers coach Daryl Powell says there will be no complacency from his side at Super League strugglers London Broncos tonight.

Their hosts are the only side without a win so far but Powell said: “It’s a dangerous fixture.

“They are ready for the challenge and are getting better.”