Bad example. Leeds enforced Iestyn Harris' contractual obligations with some vigour.

What's the problem with Wigan's actions? They hold his contract, he refuses to fulfill it, they're legally entitled to act as they have.

Though I agree the public statement seems a little petty and if I were Widnes, with whom they have an "excellent" relationship apparently, I'd be insulted that they're not considered one of Wigan's "rivals". True or not 9and it is) it's still insulting and unnecessary to a fellow league club to say so publicly.

McDermott smashed 3 Leeds players (including Jimmy Lowes) during his playing days for Bradford and we took him on.
I don`t think that his gouging would deter Tony Smith trying to sign him.
If there is more to all this than meets the eye pardon the gouging pun and he failed another test.
Then Wigan are right to get rid and not be held to ransom by someone who seems intent on ruining his career.

Side issue, but Jimmy Lowes was on the Bradford side that afternoon, and was at acting-half just before the incident. Brian did smack Barrie Mac though (after Newton and Gibson).

legendary biff by brian

was so fast

Legendary?

Brian McDermott unloaded his ex-Royal marine finest on an 18 year-old youngster and a winger - neither hit the deck not even the poop deck.

Brainless act which could have cost him a spot at Wembley albeit instigated by a classic Newton sly knee in the ribs.

Reguardless Harris ended up playing for his desired club at the time and even help this team defeat Leeds in the 2005 Grand Final. Hock isn't going to get that option this year.

Legally right in the name of the law by the looks of things but not necessarily morally right.

I agree that the mocking of Widnes is a disgrace and I just hope that been away from a toxic club will do Gareths game a world of good!

Morally right?!

Wigan stood by Hock during his drugs ban

It was in Wigan's best interest to stand by Hock and he's more than paid off this interest by playing well for them since his ban was over.

Wigan are still looking after their own interests to this day by not allowing Gareth Hock sign for his preferred club. If there's any way that could send Gareth spiraling back into bad habits then this is it. Hopefully Widnes will look after him until things get sorted out.

Why was it in Wigan's best interest?

Wigan wanted to look like a cuddly and sympathetic club that doesn't cast players out in the cold when things go wrong. Even if Hock came back a terrible player it would have been a great PR stunt to show that Wigan isn't an evil club like some people would have them





In reality Wigan saw Hocks two year ban as collateral damage because they knew that they'll be getting a good player back once this ban was over.

I'd rather have Westwood any day

.....or Kirke

(wish [ihe[/i would develop a [idark side[/i)