Warrington Wolves and Leigh Leopards have both been handed major setbacks on the even of the Super League season after members of their squad were handed GRADE F charges.
Wire new boy Josh McGuire and Leigh's Tom Amone have both been handed the highest charge possible for the use of unacceptable language in the recent pre-season game between the two teams. McGuire was sent off for the incident he has been cited for while Amone has also received the same charge after being place on report. In the Match Review Panel minutes, both have been charged for: "Verbal abuse based on race, colour, religion, gender, sexual preference, disability, nationalor ethnic origin or any other form of Unacceptable Behaviour or Language."
They are the only bans ahead of the new season, with Lachlan Coote, Elliot Minchella and Aidan Sezer all avoiding bans for their yellow card offences in the pre-season game between Hull KR and Leeds. Robins fullback Coote has been charged at Grade B 'other striking' but his previous disciplinary record, as well as the new grading leniencies have seen him fined but not suspended. Neither Sezer or Minchella were charged.
Read more: Inside Levi Edwards' Leeds Rhinos departure and key reason that prompted exit
Both McGuire and Amone are free to appeal ahead of their team's first fixtures next week. Warrington start the season with the visit of Leeds Rhinos while Leigh host Salford Red Devils. Meanwhile, York Knights' Josh Daley has received a one-match ban for a Grade C dangerous throw after their defeat to Widnes Vikings in the Championship.
Click here to pre-order our Super League season preview and get a copy delivered to your door. Featuring exclusive interviews, features, big name columnists and a dedicated page for every Super League club, it's everything you need to know for the new season.
Read next
Wheelchair Rugby League offers Magic Weekend alternative after astonishing post-World Cup growth
Gary Hetherington's Leeds Rhinos Women's reinvestment vow as recruitment drive continues
Match Review Panel changes explained as three clubs hope new rulings ensure stars avoid suspension
Brodie Croft's record Salford Red Devils contract explained - wages, release clause, salary cap