Wigan thank RFL and St Helens for Flower response

Wigan Warriors have released a statement praising the RFL for their response to the Ben Flower incident from Saturday’s Grand Final at Old Trafford.

Flower received a six-month ban for striking Lance Hohaia while he was on the ground. The ban means that he will miss 13 games in total –  two pre-season trials, Wigan’s World Club Challenge meeting with Brisbane Broncos on February 21, and the first 10 games of the 2015 Super League season.

Wigan have confirmed that they will not appeal the ban, and have also expressed collective remorse for the damage done to rugby league’s reputation by the incident.

The statement reads:

“Wigan Warriors would like to go on record in saying that the RFL disciplinary committee handled a very difficult situation with professionalism and integrity.

“We fully support their assessment of Saturday night’s incident involving our player, Ben Flower. We will be making no appeal.

“We would like to apologise to Lance Hohaia and his family and to the St Helens club and fans. St Helens win on Saturday has been overshadowed by the incident and that is wrong. The Grand Final was an incredible game and St Helens were worthy winners.

“We hope our respect and healthy rivalry can remain intact and that both clubs will return soon to Old Trafford to showcase properly the exciting splendours of Rugby League as well as its toughness.

“Ben has issued an apology and is very regretful and full of remorse for his actions.

“We will work hard to try repair any damage caused to the reputation of rugby league.

“We will be making no further comment at this stage.”