‘Rubbish’ rule slammed, woeful Wakefield & Cas’ big Danny Ward mistake – Five takeaways
Danny Ward celebrates Castleford's win over Wakefield. Photo by UK Sports Pics Ltd/Alamy Live News .
Danny Ward enjoyed a big victory in his first game in charge of Castleford with a 28-12 score over Wakefield in Super League’s relegation battle.
Here are our five takeaways from Friday night’s televised clash…
Castleford’s big Danny Ward mistake
Who knows just where Castleford Tigers might be in 2023 had Danny Ward been appointed following the departure of Lee Radford just three games in.
Instead, the former London Broncos boss was beaten to the job by England assistant Andy Last, who was relieved from his duties earlier this month after five straight defeats.
Ward admitted he showed interest in the initial opening and was eventually appointed head coach following a second successful application.
The 43-year-old was given just six games to ensure Super League safety and got of to a dream start against Wakefield in the relegation battle.
The stakes couldn’t have been higher on Friday night at Belle Vue, but the Tigers secured a 28-12 victory, including a Greg Eden hat-trick.
Ward guided London Broncos to promotion in 2018 and later 10 Super League wins – only to be relegated by points difference against Hull KR.
It leaves the question of where Castleford just might be had they appointed Ward at the start of the year.
‘Rubbish’ rule slammed by Sky Sports pundit
One of the talking points of the first half saw Wakefield centre Josh Griffin denied a try – although he later crossed twice on his third debut for the club in the defeat.
The former Hull man saw his first effort ruled out due to Matty Ashurst being inside the 10 from an offside position after Luke Gale put through a tidy grubber.
Video referee Jack Smith disallowed the effort which left Sky Sports commentator and rugby league expert Barrie McDermott questioning the laws of the game.
“I think this is a legitimate try, but obviously the rules state [it’s not],” the Leeds legend said on commentary.
“But what can you do? The rule is rubbish. I don’t think he’s advancing towards the ball, he’s advancing because…he’s advancing!”
Castleford’s new-look spine impress
Blake Austin made his Castleford debut following his shock loan move from Leeds Rhinos.
The 32-year-old partnered Jacob Miller in the halves, while Gareth Widdop featured at full-back.
The new-look spine played some attractive rugby league, with Australian half-back Miller standing up against his former club in one of his better games of the year.
Back-rower Kenny Edwards also impressed alongside fellow forward Charbel Tasipale, who scored the first try of the clash at Belle Vue.
Hooker Liam Horne and winger Elliot Wallis also worth mentions.
Woeful Wakefield poised for relegation
Wakefield were their own worst enemy in their biggest game of the season with unforced errors, forward passes and rushed efforts.
Tom Lineham had his second half effort ruled out due to a forward pass from his centre Reece Lyne in what should have been an easy four-pointer, having found the overlap out-wide.
That could have made for a tense finish. Other mistakes included basic knock-ons and breaks leading to loose passes and overturned possession.
Mark Applegarth now has just five games remaining to fight for Super League status in his debut season in charge, with Salford up next.
The side will face four-peat champions St Helens, Super League leaders Catalans, Challenge Cup winners Leigh and fellow finalists Hull KR in September. Good luck.
Castleford suffer double blow
The win came at a cost for the Tigers, with Jack Broadbent suffering a potential season-ending injury.
The outside-back, the club’s new top try-scorer with six following the departure of Bureta Faraimo, suffered a suspected broken collarbone, as reported by Sky Sports’ Jenna Brooks.
That could see the 22-year-old miss the remaining five fixtures.
Meanwhile, forward Nathan Massey was forced from the action and did not return in the second half after suffering a leg injury.