Hull KR did not appeal Albert Vete ban says Tony Smith

Josh McAllister
Albert Vete Hull KR

Hull KR did not appeal Albert Vete’s two-game ban following the club’s loss with Wigan.

The forward was charged with a Grade C dangerous contact in their 24-10 defeat at home to the Warriors.

He is set to miss their upcoming matches against Huddersfield and Castleford. Rovers had until 11am today to challenge the ruling. However, head coach Tony Smith thinks the suspension is a fair call.

Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Smith said: “He did something wrong and he’s paid the price for it.

“It was a poor tackle technique. I’m on board with all that. I haven’t seen every incident over the weekend by every player that has ended up in hot water. I’m going to look at them all this afternoon.

“I’ve got no disputes in the way they’re going in that respects.

“We’ve got to change our game and our attitude towards what we’re doing in tackles.

“I hear about our game’s collisions, contact and aggression. I’ve heard a lot of coaches complaining at this stage and I may end up being one of those coaches complaining, but I’ve had no reason to so far; I think it’s about having control in the tackle.

“Our game is changing, it isn’t all about aggression and collision; it is if it’s controlled. I think that’s the point the law makers are making to us and we have all got to buy into it.”

Meanwhile, Warrington have confirmed that the club has appealed Oliver Holmes’ one-match ban. Warrington face Castleford on Thursday night at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.

Hull KR injury update

Smith confirmed that Dean Hadley could be in the mix to feature against Huddersfield. The forward suffered a lower abdomen injury on the eve of the club’s season opener with Wigan.

Trio Ethan Ryan, Will Daggers and Rowan Milnes could also feature.

Elliot Minchella also returned over the weekend from his long-term injury, featuring for Dewsbury in the Championship. The 26-year-old was part of the club’s first win of the season. He could also return for Hull KR this weekend.

READ MORE: Super League opening weekend attendances