Warrington Wolves: Daryl Powell urges Sam Kasiano to ‘tidy his game up’ as he delivers verdict on potential suspension

Warrington coach Daryl Powell has urged overseas forward Sam Kasiano to smarten his game up following an ill-disciplined performance in the 22-6 defeat to Leeds Rhinos on Thursday night.

Kasiano, 32, was sent to the sin-bin in the first half by referee Chris Kendall for a shoulder charge on opposition winger Ash Handley at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.

It was a disappointing performance for the former New Zealand and Samoa international, who joined Powell’s side ahead of the 2023 campaign from Catalans Dragons on a two-year deal.

Kasiano alone produced four errors in a poor display overall from the hosts, who have now lost five games in their last six in all competitions.

The impact forward, who came on from the interchange bench against Rohan Smith’s rising Rhinos, also gave away three penalties during the 80 minute clash.

Sam Kasiano must tidy up discipline says coach

“His discipline just wasn’t good enough – he needs to tidy his game up,” Powell said post-match.

“I was saying that to all of the players, asking them what gets them back on their game. Not playing the ball properly and giving away penalties for talking back to the referee is just not acceptable.”

Head coach Powell, who played down the question on internal pressure following the side’s third straight defeat, believes the sin-bin shouldn’t see Kasiano receive a suspension from the match review panel on Monday.

Warrington are already low on troops in their forward pack following the departures of Thomas Mikaele and Josh McGuire, while James Harrison has one match remaining on his two-game ban for a hip-drop tackle against Castleford last Friday.

Kasiano picked up a one-match suspension earlier this year for Grade B dangerous contact against Castleford in March.

Powell commented: “I don’t think it was a terrible challenge to be honest.

“I’d be surprised if he gets banned for that.”

READ NEXT: Daryl Powell remains confident he has full backing of board as coach questions booing

FOLLOW: Keep up with all the latest on the Love Rugby League mobile app