Meli could be banned for up to eight games

James Gordon

St Helens winger Francis Meli is facing a ban of up to eight matches following his red card against Hull KR at the weekend.

Meli, 33, has been charged with a Grade E, intentional high tackle offence on Craig Hall during Saturday’s Challenge Cup tie, which carries a suspension tariff of four to eight games.

Back-rower Jon Wilkin is also facing a spell on the sidelines, possibly up to three games, after he was charged with a Grade C dangerous shoulder charge on Michael Dobson.

A third Saints player has been cited, winger Ade Gardner, who has been charged with committing a Grade B dangerous shoulder charge on Kris Welham, which carries a 1-2 match ban.

Catalan hooker Ian Henderson was the only other player charged over the weekend, for a Grade B reckless strike offence during their win over Hunslet.

Wilkin, Gardner and Henderson are all eligible to submit Early Guilty Pleas until 11am on Tuesday morning.