The Rugby Football League’s compliance team has launched an investigation into Danny McGuire’s post-match remarks following Castleford Tigers’ controversial loss to Wigan Warriors.
The Tigers’ head coach voiced his anger after his side was denied a penalty during a captain’s challenge that instead led to Wigan gaining possession. The Warriors capitalised quickly, scoring through Zach Eckersley, and later clinched a 26-20 win with a late try by captain Liam Farrell in the 78th minute.
The following day, Phil Bentham, the RFL’s head of match officials, issued a public apology to Castleford, acknowledging a “clear error” in the video review process.
McGuire didn’t hold back in his post-game comments, stating:
“Everyone in the ground could see it was a penalty. If not, I must be watching something else.”
He further criticised the standard of officiating:
“Some of the decisions tonight were pathetic. The standard is getting worse. Bring back older refs like Silverwood, Ganson, or Smith — they might not have got everything right, but at least they had guts.”
McGuire also expressed frustration over what he sees as consistent unfairness:
“We never get any decisions. They (the RFL) can fine me — I’ll pay a pound a week. It’s just not good enough.”
As a result of these comments, the RFL has sent a formal letter to both McGuire and Castleford Tigers, confirming that an investigation is under way. The coach has been invited to submit his perspective as part of the review process.
