Ian Watson given “nominal fine” by RFL for criticising referee

Salford coach Ian Watson has been given a “nominal fine” by the Rugby Football League for criticising match official Marcus Griffiths.

Watson accused referee Griffiths of “ruining the game” in his post-match press conference after the Red Devils’ 22-8 defeat by Leeds at the AJ Bell Stadium on February 22.

In his presser at the time, Watson said he expected to be fined for the comments and the RFL say Watson breached its “Respect” policy but the governing body says he was treated leniently after explaining his comments.

In a statement released by the RFL, it read: “There has been constructive dialogue between Watson and the Rugby Football League’s match officials department since the incident, with all parties looking forward to continuing a positive relationship.

“However, a small fine has been imposed for his comments criticising the performance of the match officials, which were deemed to have breached the RFL’s Respect policy.”

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