Denis Betts: 'Gareth Hock red card was a joke'

Denis Betts has described Gareth Hock's sending-off during Widnes Vikings' 22-22 draw with Bradford Bulls as "an absolute joke".

The second rower was dismissed during the first half for dissent, leaving Widnes a man short for much of the match.

After the match, the Vikings coach told reporters: "It was an atrocious decision and an absolute joke. It was a very poor decision and a player should not be sent off for swearing.

"Are we in a schoolyard? You shouldn't get sent off for swearing. Maybe warn him or a sin bin but not a sending off. It's very frustrating."

Despite Hock's dismissal, Widnes fought back from 20-4 down at half time to share the points with their opponents.

Written by
Sian Cowper