Catalans player Kenny Edwards has been found not guilty of inciting the crowd at Saturday’s Catalans versus Warrington match.
The New Zealand-born forward was handed the verdict after a lengthy disciplinary hearing that looked into scenes at the end of Saturday’s clash in Perpignan.
The game was marred by a brawl on the pitch and fighting in the stands at the Stade Gilbert Brutus, which were broadcast live on Sky Sports. Referee James Child brandished two red cards and four yellows, and on Monday suspensions were handed out to Catalans quartet Sam Tomkins, Michael McIlorum, Brayden Wiliame and Mickaël Simon, plus Warrington winger Tom Lineham.
But the Dragons contested three of their four charges, and Wiliame and Simon have been cleared to face Leeds on Friday. Tomkins’ ban stays at three matches while McIlorum had his suspension increased from one to two.
Edwards’ clearance comes as the RFL appointed an independent investigator to look into the incidents in Perpignan on Saturday night.
Both Catalans and Warrington are also currently undergoing their own internal investigations. According to the RFL’s operational rules, clubs are responsible for the actions of their spectators, and they will determine what sanctions, if any, they take against any individuals.
The Wolves are set to confirm the extent of Blake Austin’s ankle injury - also sustained at Catalans - on Wednesday. Warrington have signed Dragons half-back Matty Smith on loan to the end of the season, after Kevin Brown suffered a setback in his recovery from an achilles injury.
Wakefield have also strengthened their squad ahead of Friday’s signing deadline with the loan captures of Wigan outside back Morgan Escaré and Hull prop Chris Green.
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