BY JOHN DAVIDSON
The RFL and its match officials are expected to ease back slightly on the crackdown against foul play following a meeting this week with Super League coaches.
Several coaches and players have voiced their disproval at the large amount of yellow and red cards being given out already this season, compared with in 2021.
With the RFL facing litigation from some former players, now battling brain damage, over the handling of concussions during their careers, as well as currently searching for a new insurance partner, there has been a clampdown on attacks to the head and increased punishments for acts of foul play on the field this season.
But some of the decisions, including the recent sin-binning of Castleford centre Mahe Fonua against Wigan, have been controversial and attracted heavy criticism from different quarters.
rugbyleaguehub.com Long Reads understands that now, after new dialogue with coaches this Wednesday, there could be less yellow cards and sin-binnings given out in the coming weeks.
It is believed in the future referees will be told not to give out a yellow card if it is deemed a “50/50” call.
One source said: “The RFL conceded some of the front-on marginal late tackles have been wrongly punished and should only be so if the defender takes two or three steps towards the ball carrier when the ball has gone. This is significantly difficult to how it’s been charged.”
Another confirmed: “They will try to keep players on the field where they have doubt”.
When approached by rugbyleaguehub.com Long Reads today, the RFL said in a statement:
“RFL officials held a meeting with Betfred Super League head coaches on Wednesday afternoon to discuss early-season issues that have arisen over on-field misconduct and punishments.
Dave Rotheram, the RFL’s Chief On-Field Officer, was joined by the Head of Match Officials Steve Ganson, the Chair of the MRP Paul Cullen, and Robert Hicks, the RFL’s Director of Operations and Legal.
A number of concerns were raised, with the RFL providing further clarification over what has changed – and not changed – in terms of refereeing and sentencing guidelines in 2022. Those present were reminded that Match Officials are only implementing the policies of the game, and that all are coming to terms with the changes, with an acceptance that two recent high-profile sin-binnings had been incorrect, as per the MRP analysis.
The mood of the meeting was constructive, with coaches and players congratulated for improvements in behaviour relating to late and high tackles in recent weeks. Given this improvement it is hoped the number of charges and on field sanctions should continue to reduce. Dialogue will continue until a scheduled coaches meeting in April.
The RFL held an equivalent meeting with members of Laws Committee on Thursday.”
