St Helens star free to play in Super League Grand Final
Morgan Knowles of St Helens celebrates his try with Tommy Makinson
St Helens forward Morgan Knowles is free to play in the Super League Grand Final despite being charged by the Rugby Football League’s match review panel.
The 24-year-old received a Grade A charge for a high tackle in their 36-8 win over Leeds on Friday.
However, Knowles has escaped a suspension and is free to play against Catalans Dragons at Old Trafford on Saturday.
Knowles’ team-mates Matty Lees (high tackle), Tommy Makinson (tackle off the ball) and Sione Mata’utia (high tackle) were also noted in the match review panel’s minutes. However, no further action has been taken on any of the offences and they are all free to play.
Catalans duo James Maloney and Sam Kasiano have also been cleared. Maloney was cautioned for standing an opponent in their win over Hull KR, whilst Kasiano was looked at for a high tackle.
Meanwhile, Leeds forward James Donaldson received a Grade A charge for a high tackle. Hull KR half-back Mikey Lewis was cautioned for other contrary behaviour.
Morgan Knowles to play, St Helens coach confident on Jack Welsby
St Helens utility Jack Welsby left the field with a shoulder injury in the second half last week but was able to return.
Saints boss Kristian Woolf is confident that Welsby will be fit for this weekend.
Woolf said: “I was worried when he came off because he’s a tough kid and he doesn’t come off. But he looks like he’s fine.
“He was in a bit of pain. But I think he would have to be pretty broken to not play next week. I’m pretty confident he’ll be there.”
Woolf also paid tribute to his players after last week’s emphatic semi-final win.
He added: “This group of men is so special. This town needs to be really proud of them for the hunger they have shown to put themselves in this position, it’s absolutely outstanding.
“They’ve put themselves in a position where they can go on and achieve something special. But it’s certainly not done yet.”