Veteran coach tips RFL to review controversial rule that saw Wakefield Trinity try disallowed
John Kear has had his say on the rule that saw Josh Griffin's first effort disallowed.
Veteran coach John Kear believes Wakefield’s first half disallowed try against Castleford may force the Rugby Football League to review one of their rules.
From an offside position, captain Matty Ashurst was judged to be within 10 metres of a kick as centre Josh Griffin crossed on his third debut for the club in what he believed to be his first four-pointer.
However, the centre’s effort from Luke Gale’s grubber was ruled a no try by video referee Jack Smith upon review as per the rules.
From the RFL’s website, laws of the game state: ““Down town” – Any player who is in front of the kicker in general play is not permitted to advance beyond the point of the previous play the-ball until the ball has gone past the off side players. This rule delays the movement of the offside players downfield in an attempt to encircle the ball receiver as they collect the ball.”
Kear, who has coached more than 400 games but was most recently sacked by Championship outfit Widnes earlier in June, was a special guest live on Sky Sports during the relegation clash between Wakefield and Castleford at Belle Vue.
The 68-year-old, still in charge of Wales on the international stage, believes the rule may need reviewing by the Rugby Football League, while Sky Sports commentator Barrie McDermott slammed the law.
Danny Ward enjoyed a dream start as head coach of Castleford as his side claimed a vital 28-12 win over fellow Super League strugglers Wakefield, with one side set for the drop at the end of the season.
“I think Wakefield can feel really harshly done by and it’s something the RFL might need to look at,” Kear said at half-time, speaking with presenter Brian Carney.
Wakefield were also left unhappy by the decision on the sidelines according to Sky Sports reporter Jenna Brooks.
Barrie McDermott slams rule
Meanwhile, rugby league expert and former player McDermott was left stunned by the rule.
Griffin went on to score twice during his side’s defeat, having made the mid-season switch from Hull FC following his monster seven-match ban.
Full-back Max Jowitt also crossing in the defeat, while Greg Eden enjoyed a hat-trick for the visitors, joined on the scoresheet by team-mates Charbel Tasipale and Alex Foster.
“I think this is a legitimate try, but obviously the rules state [it’s not],” the Leeds legend said on commentary.
“But what can you do? The rule is rubbish. I don’t think he’s advancing towards the ball, he’s advancing because he’s advancing!”
“It’s harsh.”
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