Wigan Warriors Hooker O’Neill and St Helens’ Mbye Suspended Ahead of Derby Clash
In a blow to both teams, Wigan Warriors hooker Brad O’Neill and his St Helens counterpart Moses Mbye have been handed one-match suspensions following the latest round of Super League fixtures. The two players are set to miss Friday’s highly anticipated derby encounter.
O’Neill has been charged with a Grade B Dangerous Throw, while Mbye was charged with Grade B Dangerous Contact. As a result, they will be unavailable for the crucial match-up between the fierce rivals.
“The absence of both O’Neill and Mbye represents a significant setback for Wigan and St Helens.”
Warrington Wolves forward James Harrison has also received a suspension, earning a ban for a Grade B Dangerous Contact charge after the Wire’s victory against Huddersfield on Friday.
All three players have the right to appeal their respective suspensions, with a decision required by Tuesday noon.
Impact on Teams
Kruise Leeming would typically step up to start in place of O’Neill, but he is currently sidelined due to injury. St Helens will be hopeful that Daryl Clark is available, as they face a potential crisis at the hooker position if he is unable to feature. The reigning champions will be determined to overcome this challenge and maintain their strong start to the season.
Additionally, Wigan props Mike Cooper and Luke Thompson, Leigh’s Robbie Mulhern and John Asiata, and Hull’s Yusuf Aydin were also charged but received only £250 fines.
This turn of events adds an extra layer of intrigue to the highly anticipated rugby league derby, as both teams will need to adjust their lineups and strategies to overcome the suspensions of their key hooking options.
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