RFL admit mistake in awarding try during St Helens' dramatic play-off win over Leeds Rhinos
The RFL have admitted that a St Helens try in their Super League play-off win over Leeds Rhinos should not have been allowed.
The Rugby Football League has admitted a mistake was made in the awarding of a try to St Helens, in Saints dramatic Super League play-off win over Leeds Rhinos.
It ended 14-12 to Saints after a dramatic last gasp effort that saw the ball touch down just as time ran out on the match.
The RFL has now admitted an earlier second try by Jon Bennison should not have stood.
On-field ref Jack Smith was overruled by the video referee after initially declaring no try.
Bennison's conversion set up Saints last minute winner.
In a statement, the RFL said: "The RFL held positive and constructive discussions with senior officials from Leeds Rhinos on Tuesday, following Saturday’s Betfred Super League eliminator between Leeds and St Helens."
"The RFL had already acknowledged in private to Leeds, and in public through the media, that on the second St Helens try decision, the on-field call of no try should not have been over-ruled.
"While it was consistent with replays viewed before making the decision, viewing another of the available angles would have changed that position and consequently the on-field ruling would have been upheld.
"In apologising for the error, the RFL also wishes to place on record gratitude for Leeds’s acknowledgement of the importance of respecting match officials and their role, and the need for all parties to continue working together to deliver the best possible decisions."
St Helens are due to face Hull KR later this week for a chance to compete in the Grand Final.