Quote: nottinghamtiger "I never really understood the 'pre judged' appeal to be honest.
Of course, to some extent, an appeal is always slightly influenced by the fact there must have been a 'guilty' verdict otherwise there wouldn't be an appeal.
However, your chairman seems to be suggesting that the OUTCOME of the appeal was actually decided before the appeal hearing (ie they decided that the ban would stand before the hearing). If this is true, he should have made this the focus of his argument, rather than the more melodramatic statements about Powell and boycotting the return fixture that were always going to look like he was just throwing his teddy out of the cot and having a meltdown.
In other news, according to "rumours" it appears Shenton's injury may not be a serious as first thought. He is going to be out for some time, but about four months rather than the nine originally thought (the injury may not require surgery apparently). I imagine your chairman will be moaning about that next!'"
Bit underlined - yep that is my reading of it.
I agree that (based on the evidence available) Rovers issue is with the RFL much, much more than Castleford; with the (seemingly) poor initial decision and (accusations of) serious breaches of process. Powell's bellyaching isn't at all unusual among coaches (our own among them at times over the years) - what is shocking that it [iseems[/i to have such a profound impact. Not his fault if the RFL take his word as law.
I hope Shenton is back on the pitch as soon as possible.