RFL praised for communication between match officials and clubs
Photo: Allan McKenzie / SWpix
Castleford coach Lee Radford has praised the RFL for their communication between the match officials department and the clubs.
The Rugby Football League have clamped down on head contact and illegal play more than ever in 2022.
Super League’s opening round saw three red cards, while Hull skipper Luke Gale could face up to eight weeks on the sideline following his red card against St Helens.
The half-back has been charged with Grade C and Grade D Other Contrary Behaviour, and has been referred to tribunal.
St Helens boss Kristian Woolf has recently shared his support on the RFL’s crackdown. Castleford boss Radford has also praised the governing body’s handling of the evolving game.
MORE: Kristian Woolf supports crackdown on head contact
Lee Radford has say on foul play clamp down
“I think the game is in an incredibly tough situation,” said Radford during his pre-match press conference.
“The head knock scenario is around and it is there. You need insurance to play the game so I can understand why they are taking zero tolerance on it.
“I actually watched it 12 months ago in rugby union and they probably came down harder if anything. I get it but it is a tough, physical sport we play.
“A bit like boxing, you’ve got to expect to get punched in the face sometimes and if you don’t, then you are probably kidding yourself. They are in a tough sport.
“We kick ourselves in the crotch a lot in the sport but the positive for me, is that the RFL have given us an opportunity to voice our opinion to the officials post-game.
“It was almost like a counselling session for me last night!
“To actually hear them agree with some of those decisions and give reasoning for those decisions is a massive step. We are very critical sometimes as a sport but I think that is a massive step in the right direction. I just think communication can only be a good thing for the sport.
“One of their offers as well if you’ve got a training routine that needs checking then you can send it in as well. I can only compliment them on it.”