WINGHAM were set to lodge an official complaint to Group Three Rugby League on Tuesday over the officiating in the preliminary semi-final against Port City at the Wingham Sporting Complex.
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Port City won 36-22. The Tigers were reduced to 12 players when prop Michael Richards was sent off by referee Barry Murray midway through the first half following a melee involving players from both sides. Richards will plead not guilty to a striking charge when he faces the judiciary this week.
Port City halfback Josh Hyde was sin binned from the same incident involving Richards. The pair became involved in a heat verbal exchange near the dressing sheds before officials intervened.
Wingham led 18-12 Richards was sent off on a touch judge’s report. The Breakers scored a try through speedy centre Clint Walker just before halftime and assumed control when co-centre Jarrod Robbins crossed early in the second half. They were never going to lose from there.
Starved of possession, the Tigers were unable to build any attacking momentum in the second half as Port dominated field position.
Port City and Port Macquarie will play in Sunday’s major semi, so ensuring the grand final is played on the Hastings for the ninth consecutive year.
The Tigers claim the lop-sided penalty count favoured Port City 16-6 and say they received just one penalty in the second half.
Club treasurer Craig Martin labelled the decision to dismiss Richards as ‘a joke.’ The Tigers will take video evidence into the judiciary hearing and are confident Richards will be cleared to play in Saturday’s minor semi-final against Taree City at Wingham.
Wingham also have issues with touch judge Rod Copp’s performance and this is also expected to be highlighted in the official complaint.
“If we’re beaten by a better team then so be it,’’ Martin fumed.
"But we just want a fair dig.’’
(A full match report appears on www.manningrivertimes.com.au)