10 most read Love Rugby League articles of 2019
We are coming to the end of 2019, so here’s a look at the top 10 articles on-site from the last 12 months.
Amateur player banned for life after sucker punch
One of the more shocking stories of the year came when Langworthy Reds centre Callum Jones was banned for life after a sucker punch on a Chorley Panthers player. He was handed the suspension after the incident, which took place in the North West Men’s League Division 2 Final at Victoria Park in Warrington.
The release of each club’s new kits is always an exciting time for supporters, and the last few weeks have been no different. Teams have been getting ready for 2020 and there have been some impressive shirts released so far, including Catalans and Leeds’ away choices. We have compiled all the kits released so far.
Wigan make classy gesture towards Danny McGuire
As Danny McGuire prepared for his last appearance at the DW Stadium, Wigan Executive Director Kris Radlinski made a fine gesture on behalf of the Warriors, presenting a handwritten letter and a bottle of champagne to McGuire. The 37-year-old announced his retirement from the sport at the end of last season.
Six things rugby league should scrap
Back in August, Editor James Gordon took a look at six things that should be scrapped to make rugby league better. These included the announcement of 19-man squads – with rules since being modified – and ticket price hikes on the day of a game.
Kallum Watkins wife hits out at hateful social media critics
In June, the wife of Kallum Watkins hit out at rugby league fans on social media for their treatment of the England international. She said that supporters didn’t think twice about a player’s mental health before issuing criticism. Later that month, the 28-year-old joined NRL side Gold Coast Titans on a long-term deal.
Six players who should’ve been included in the GB squad
Following Great Britain’s humbling whitewash series defeat at the hands of New Zealand, we took a look at six players who should’ve been included in Wayne Bennett’s travelling party. These included St Helens and Wales international Regan Grace, who scored 20 tries in Super League last year.
Patrick Ah Van makes incredible gesture to Widnes
Patrick Ah Van had been playing for free for Widnes while they were in special measures following their administration, but decided to go one step further after picking up a nasty ankle injury. Supporters wanted to raise funds for the 31-year-old during his recovery, but he asked for all money to be reinvested into the Vikings instead.
Batley player dies in Toulouse
One of the more tragic stories of the year came when Batley youngster Archie Bruce passed away, barely hours after making his debut for the Bulldogs away at Toulouse. It was later revealed following a post-mortem that the 20-year-old died of asphyxiation.
Featherstone sack Thompson Teteh
In August, Featherstone sacked Thompson Teteh for a serious breach of contract. The 30-year-old arrived at the club alongside fellow Papua New Guinea internationals Ase and Watson Boas, but made just seven appearances before being dismissed.
Toronto’s different entry criteria for Super League “disturbing”
Former Bradford chairman Andrew Chalmers admitted in September that he was ‘disturbed’ that Toronto’s entry criteria for Super League was different to other overseas clubs. The Wolfpack beat Featherstone in the Million Pound Game, becoming the first transatlantic side to reach the top flight.
