THE RFL has confirmed that Catalans Dragons head coach Steve McNamara could face sanctions for criticism of match officials following his side’s 36-12 Challenge Cup semi-final loss to Hull KR on Saturday.
McNamara voiced his outspoken opinion to the media after the loss, saying that he was “pissed off” at the lack of penalties being given to his side.
He said: “Have you ever seen a semi-final where a team doesn’t get a penalty? Have you ever seen that anywhere?
“I’m really annoyed with that side of it, and I’m annoyed with our performance.
“We got it back to 12-10 but we spent too much energy. We didn’t work hard enough at certain times ourselves, but as you can tell I’m pissed off not to receive a penalty at all apart from them kicking out on the full.
“I was concerned (about it pre-match) because in Hull KR’s home games this year (they have had) 42 penalties given and 16 conceded, and only three six agains all year.
“This was not supposed to be a home game, although it felt like it and it was always going to feel like it.”
Having contacted the RFL, a spokesperson has told League Express: “RFL compliance have written to Steve McNamara yesterday (Monday), regarding post-match comments, and potential breaches of Operational Rules relating to Respect code of conduct and criticism of match officials. He has a week in which to respond.”
