Leeds Rhinos star Harry Newman's try v Wigan Warriors was wrong decision says referees' boss

The crucial try scored by Harry Newman in Leeds Rhinos’ win over Wigan Warriors should not have been awarded, the RFL say.
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Newman dived over from acting-half, squeezing past Ash Handley who had been tackled just short of the line.

Referee Liam Moore handed the decision on to video official James Child as a try and he gave the green light.

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But RFL referees’ boss Steve Ganson said that was the wrong call.

Harry Newman's try against Wigan should have been disallowed, the RFL say. Picture by Jonathan Gawthorpe.Harry Newman's try against Wigan should have been disallowed, the RFL say. Picture by Jonathan Gawthorpe.
Harry Newman's try against Wigan should have been disallowed, the RFL say. Picture by Jonathan Gawthorpe.

“All matches are reviewed in full at the conclusion of the weekend’s round of fixtures, however, on this occasion a more urgent clarification is necessary,” he said in a statement issued by the RFL.

“This was a particularly disappointing set of circumstances and it’s clear the department has fallen below the standard necessary and expected.

“The decision was incorrect to award the try.”

The video referee policy states: “If an attacking player, in an attempt to score a try, dives through or into a teammate in front of him, including the man playing the ball then this should be deemed as obstruction, if the defensive team is materially disadvantaged.”

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Newman’s try, which was converted by Rhyse Martin, gave Rhinos a 30-6 lead early in the second half and they went on to win 42-12, their third victory ibn four games.

In televised Super League matches, a referee unsure about a try has to give an on-field ruling before handing the decision on.

Video officials are instructed to go with the original ruling unless there is overwhelming evidence it should be overturned.