Rugby league fans have reacted to a controversial moment in last night’s top-of-the-table clash between Wigan Warriors and Hull KR, with opinions split on whether the correct call was made.
Hull KR managed to take the victory over Wigan for the first time in five matches, as Dean Hadley’s first half try, combined with three goals from the boot of Rhyse Martin, was enough to put the Robins six points adrift at the top of the league with just five rounds remaining.
However, Rovers fans could feel slightly aggrieved with a dubious call made on a potential penalty try. KR were 6-0 up at the time, and a kick into the in-goal area looked set to be grounded by skipper Elliot Minchella. However, he was taken high and off the ball by Wigan captain Liam Farrell, leading to a sin bin for the Warriors back rower.
Nobody had any doubt about the yellow card, however video referee Jack Smith ruled that whilst it was a clear professional foul, there was not enough evidence to suggest that Minchella would have certainly scored.
Sky Sports pundits Jon Wilkin and Paul Cooke both had opposing views, with the latter siding with the referee. Fans of all Super League clubs have weighed in on the debate, and here are some of the comments from supporters on the incident.
Rugby League fans have their say on controversial Wigan Warriors incident
Tony Charlesworth: Penalty try all day!
Alex Leach: Video ref was about right on that though it was a borderline decision. The ball picked up speed on the bounce and was well beyond his grasp even without the tackle
Alec Fairbairn: Penalty try every day of the week
Gregg Prescott: Never seen a more blatant penalty try and I’m Wigan to the core.
Despite the standard perhaps not living up to what fans wanted to see from the league’s best, fans applauded the game in what was a tight contest.
Dale Heskett: Oh how good is rugby league. If there is a better sport I have not seen it.
Shaun Fuller: Absolutely seat gripping
Paul Bartlett: Well done KR outstanding performance and yes that was a penalty try all day long FC fan
Greig Cardwell: Cracking game to watch, cheers Wigan for not making it comfortable. Wish everyone would stop banging on about the LLS though, it’s not over until its mathematically done and dusted.
