Leeds’ Rhyse Martin unsuccessful in appeal
Leeds Rhinos have confirmed that they have been unsuccessful in the appeal for Rhyse Martin.
It means the goal-kicking back-rower will not be available for their Super League semi-final clash against Wigan on Friday.
The Rugby Football League’s match review initially gave Martin a one-match ban for a Grade A high tackle on Castleford forward Alex Mellor two weeks ago.
Leeds appealed the suspension but were unsuccessful in doing so. As a result, Martin saw his ban doubled. An independent tribunal found the challenge to be frivolous and issued an additional £500 fine.
The Papua New Guinea international was forced to miss the eliminator play-off against Catalans Dragons.
During his weekly media duties, head coach Rohan Smith confirmed that the club were set to appeal the frivolous charge in order to have their number #1 goal kicker available for Friday.
That last-ditch attempt however has been denied and 29-year-old Martin will miss the knock-out tie at the DW Stadium.
The club shared on social media: “Rhyse Martin has been unsuccessful in his appeal at the RFL Disciplinary and will miss Friday’s Super League semi-final at Wigan.”
Rhyse Martin has been unsuccessful in his appeal at the RFL Disciplinary and will miss Friday’s @SuperLeague semi final at Wigan
— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) September 13, 2022
Leeds low on troops for Wigan clash
Rhinos boss Smith provided an injury update on his side in his pre-match press conference. He confirmed that captain Ash Handley and Young Player of the Year nominee Morgan Gannon are out.
Aidan Sezer, who has been influential for the Rhinos in recent weeks, is also doubtful. England prop Mikolaj Oledzki is “touch and go” as he manages a shoulder injury.
England World Cup hopeful Harry Newman could be available this week after undergoing an accelerated recovery programme. Tonga international winger David Fusitu’a is also 50/50 heading into Friday’s eliminator, which is live on Sky Sports.
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