Stapleton banned for ref rant

Salford prop Craig Stapleton has been suspended for one match after being sent off for foul and abusive language following his side’s defeat by Catalans Dragons last Friday.

Stapleton was dismissed by referee Phil Bentham for comments made after the final hooter at The Willows.

Salford were beaten 18-16 after a last-minute try from the Dragons’ Casey McGuire.

Stapleton, 30, who is leaving the club at the end of the season, will miss the Reds’ trip to Harlequins on Saturday.

Coach Shaun McRae said: “We don’t condone it in any way. You can think what you want, but don’t say it.”

Stapleton was also fined £300.