LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The RFL has announced that Wakefield Trinity is awarded a 48-0 victory due to the cancellation of their Super League match against Salford Red Devils.
According to reports from skysports.com, the decision to cancel the match was made by Salford, who expressed "significant concerns regarding player welfare," as they were left with only two senior players available and had to rely on 15 academy products for the home game.
In a statement regarding the fixture's outcome, the RFL mentioned: "Following the cancellation of the Round 22 Betfred Super League fixture between Salford Red Devils and Wakefield Trinity which was scheduled for Sunday August 17, the RFL Board have ruled that the match should be awarded to Wakefield Trinity with a scoreline of 48-0."
The board emphasized that this decision is consistent with Operational Rule B1:23 and considers the circumstances leading to Salford's cancellation, noting the advanced stage of the league season.
Salford is currently experiencing significant financial difficulties, including late wage payments and a mass exit of players, leading to 19 losses out of 21 Super League matches, which paints a grim picture of the club's future.
While Salford claims this decision is an isolated incident and that they will field a team against Leigh Leopards in their upcoming match, there are growing concerns about their ability to complete the season, especially with five more rounds remaining.