Female rugby player’s club issues statement after sending off over comment to male referee
York Valkyrie has shared a statement in wake of Sinead Peach's spat with a referee on Saturday (30 August).
Over the weekend, the captain of the women's rugby league team landed herself in hot water after allegedly getting smart with referee Ollie Salmon.
She was kicked into touch near the end of York's clash against St Helens at her rival's home ground in Merseyside two days ago, which culminated with the host's securing an 18-8 win.
Peach was ordered off the pitch after being shown a red card by Salmon.
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Her club has since spoken out about the viral incident, saying the star player 'understands the serious nature of the situation' and has expressed 'genuine remorse' for her words.
The mother-of-one, 27, was sent off for dissent during the game at the Totally Wicked Stadium moments after the referee paused play to award the Saints a penalty.
Explaining his reasoning, Salmon was heard telling the female players: "The ball's been played at, the foot's been stuck out and then you've made an attempt to kick."
Peach is then alleged to have sniped back with a savage comment where she appeared to suggest that the referee was favouring St Helens during the game.
Although sports fans watching live didn't hear what she said, viewers did get to listen to Salmon's response.
The referee was heard saying: "I'm not having any of that... that's the decision.
"I'm not having you saying, 'Which one are you sh*gging'. You're off."
Footage of the exchange subsequently went viral on social media, prompting York Valkyrie to address the incident.
The club's chairman Clint Goodchild said in a statement on Monday (1 September): "On behalf of York RLFC, I wish to address the matter concerning Sinead Peach.
"Sinead expressed genuine remorse immediately for the comment and understands the serious nature of the situation.
"We will continue to support Sinead while she and the team prepare for the approaching playoffs.
"As a club, we have confidence the RFL tribunal process will take into account Sinead’s longstanding positive contribution to the game and her respectful reputation will be recognised.
"We are committed to the values of respect and integrity that underpin our sport."
The Rugby Football League (RFL) has confirmed that the red card given to Peach will be assessed by the match review panel on Thursday (4 September).
She has not yet publicly commented on the incident.
Social media users reckoned that the York Valkyrie captain was asking for trouble when going up against the referee.
One person said: "Crazy thing to say to a ref, just begging for the sending off there," while another added: "Wow absolutely vile comments from the York player. Kudos to the referee for showing her the red card."
A third wrote: "Fair play referee. Red Card all day long. Very surprising comments from the York captain."
A fourth simply said: "Rugby League never fails."
LADbible has contacted the Rugby Football League for comment.
Olivia Burke