Rugby League Today: Harsh to relegate anyone this year; McIlorum and Maloney linked with shock move
What’s on site
Expect more World Cup talk today, there’s an early morning press conference with chief executive Jon Dutton off the back of last night’s statement that talks are ongoing with various stakeholders over the “tournament threatening” decision of Australia and New Zealand to withdraw.
Our columnist Ed Anderson says the show must go on, and that the World Cup should go ahead without the two giants, as part of a bold plan to revitalise international rugby league in the northern hemisphere.
Back in the crazy world of Super League, Warrington beat Wigan 21-8 in front of just over 8,000 fans at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.
Check out all the latest rugby league gossip.
What’s on social
Adrian Lam wasn’t happy with one of Warrington’s tries.
"We were the better team throughout the whole game"
"The try down the left-hand side was a disgrace…it should have been a penalty to us"
Adrian Lam was not happy with some of the referee's decisions during his side loss to the Warrington Wolves.
#⃣ #SuperLeague pic.twitter.com/4LOiPQoo5z
— Sky Sports Rugby League (@SkySportsRL) July 28, 2021
Great gesture!
🤕 5-year old Harry Ingram suffered a broken arm at our game against Huddersfield in June, after being struck by a ball in his seat!
To make up for it, we invited the Hull FC mad youngster to our third jersey photoshoot – we hope you had a great afternoon, Harry! 🙌
⚫️⚪️ #COYH pic.twitter.com/mWM1b4NOUF
— Hull FC (@hullfcofficial) July 28, 2021
Lots of good independent podcasts going around these days, including the latest episode of this one – which provides some interesting insight to behind the scenes at St Helens!
What did @TommyMak21 do to @g4wheeler6 before a big game? Find out from midday sunday when Gaz shares his #Rugbystory with us. Find us wherever you get your podcasts from. He has a link to a @PScully13 tale whose #Rugbystory is still available to listen to as well. #TopBallers https://t.co/uz3KeZM0IF
— Trot The Egg In (@TrotTheEggIn) July 21, 2021
Not sure any amount of begging can resolve this.
Dear @NRL clubs. Please listen with an open mind to #RLWC2021 . Please listen to your players. Please consider seriously the unprecedented safety & transport regime put in place for the tournament. And Please do not stand in the way of the greatest #RLWC there has ever been.
— Simon Johnson (@sjrbsimon) July 28, 2021
What’s in the papers
Hull KR coach Tony Smith says it would be harsh to relegate anyone from Super League this season, following the impact that coronavirus has had on the campaign. (Leigh Journal)
Kristian Woolf is set to stay as St Helens coach, chairman Eamonn McManus has revealed on a club podcast. (St Helens Star)
Catalans duo James Maloney and Michael McIlorum are being linked with a surprise move to French champions Lezignan, by the local Perpignan press. Maloney has a contract option for 2022, while McIlorum is keen to stay in France at the end of his Dragons contract. (L’Independant)
Birthdays
Catalans’ infamous touchline goalkicker Scott Dureau turns 35 today (July 29).
Also celebrating: ex-Blackpool and Rochdale full-back Jonny Leather (32);
What’s on TV/radio
10.50am – Live NRL: Sydney Roosters v Parramatta Eels – Sky Sports Main Event & Mix
7.30pm – Live Super League: Hull FC v Leeds – Sky Sports Arena
Trivia
A total of 81 different stadiums have hosted World Cup games over the previous 14 tournaments.