Rugby League Today: Shocking Burgess allegations, Sonny Bill ruled out & RFL apology

James Gordon

What’s on site

Hull kept their slim play-off hopes alive with a 32-28 win over Castleford on Thursday night, thanks to Jake Connor’s late try.

The highlight of this week’s Rugby League Lunch Hour was Josh spilling his drink – but don’t let that distract you from the chat about this week’s Super League, academy players chat and Challenge Cup predictions.

Hull KR centre Ben Crooks says he is “over the moon” to sign a new deal for 2021.

The NRL play-offs begin this morning, and Zach Holland has looked ahead to the four games this weekend.

Wakefield coach Chris Chester says it will be nice to play in front of fans when Trinity travel to Catalans this weekend.

We catch up with former Leigh forward Jamie Acton to find out more about what he’s been doing following his rugby league career, notably launching a mental health app.

Shaun Edwards, remember him? We’ve looked back to his move to Bradford.

What’s on social

The RFL have apologised for the issues fans experienced when trying to watch games on Our League on Wednesday night.

The match-winning try was scored by Jake Connor for Hull at Castleford last night.

Good luck to Jamie Peacock in his endeavours to raise money for the Rob Burrow fund.

What’s in the papers

A shocking report on Sam Burgess and an alleged cover-up from his time at South Sydney Rabbitohs has been published in The Australian, filled with apparent evidence of text messages surrounding alleged cases of drug abuse, domestic violence and harassment.

Ahead of Wigan’s Challenge Cup date with Leeds this weekend, coach Adrian Lam revealed the gesture made by Kris Radlinski following their 2002 final win over St Helens, reports The Mirror.

A neck injury has ruled Sonny Bill Williams out of Sydney Roosters’ play-off clash with Penrith Panthers, reports the Sydney Morning Herald.

Birthdays

Kevin Brown of Salford Red Devils makes a forty yard solo run to go over for a try

Salford’s former Wigan, Widnes, Huddersfield and Warrington stand-off Kevin Brown celebrates his 36th birthday today (October 2).

Also celebrating: Huddersfield legend Eorl Crabtree (38); Catalans and France hooker Alrix Da Costa (23); Tommy Turbo Trbojevic (24); Bradford winger Matty Dawson (30).

What’s on TV/radio

10.50am – Live NRL: Penrith v Sydney – Sky Sports Arena

1pm – Super League Show – BBC Two

Trivia

Ben McNamara was just one-year-old when dad Steve played his last game as a professional – for Huddersfield in a 22-12 defeat to London in September 2003.

Features Adrian Lam