Castleford’s Alex Mellor defends Rhyse Martin following suspension
Photo: John Clifton/SWpix
Castleford Tigers forward Alex Mellor has defended opponent Rhyse Martin following his two-match suspension for a high tackle.
Mellor, 27, was on the receiving end of the tackle which was charged at Grade A by the match review panel.
Initially, goal-kicking back-rower Martin was handed a one-match ban for the incident that occurred at Headingley Stadium on Saturday.
Leeds decided to appeal the suspension, but were unsuccessful. In doing so, Martin saw his suspension doubled. An independent tribunal found the challenge to be frivolous and issued an additional £500 fine.
It means the 29-year-old will miss the eliminator play-off against Catalans and the semi-final if successful.
Alex Mellor responds to suspension
However, Castleford back-rower Mellor has defended his opponent on social media. He wrote: “It’s not even a penalty, never mind a ban! I feel for you my mate.”
Martin himself said: “I’m devastated by this outcome!”
It’s not even a penalty never mind a ban! Feel for you my mate @rhysemartin https://t.co/o4zbzIWS18
— Alex Mellor (@melloralex) September 6, 2022
Suspensions, suspensions, suspensions
Suspensions have become a major talking point in the 2022 season, with almost a new topic to discuss every week.
Papua New Guinea international Martin will be the only player to miss the play-off eliminators due to a ban.
Former Leeds and Great Britain prop Barrie McDermott shared his opinions on the incident on social media.
He said: “This decision is absolutely ridiculous. Three games in 15 days at the end of the year & a falling player hits the defenders arm, not the other way round. His audacity to question it ends his season!”
Martin would be available for the Grand Final if Leeds are successful in their play-off run which includes the Dragons and then a trip to either St Helens or Wigan the following week.
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