York Valkyrie are standing by their captain Sinead Peach after her accusation to the ref earned her a red card – and then went viral.
Millions of people have now viewed the moment in the 82nd minute of the Betfred Women’s Super League clash with St Helens on Saturday.
She was sent off for allegedly asking referee Oliver Salmon: “Which one are you shagging?”
With York trailing, Salmon awarded Saints a penalty – which Faye Gaskin duly converted to make the final score 18-8 – for a York offside, which Peach disputed.
Live footage of the match, which was broadcast on The Sportsman’s YouTube channel, picked up the ref’s mic.
Salmon said to the England international: “I’m not having you saying, ‘Which one are you shagging?’ You’re off.”
The Rugby Football League confirmed that Peach’s red card will be considered by the match review panel on Thursday.
Peach, 27, has led York to back-to-back Grand Final victories in 2023 and 2024 and was named Woman of Steel in October 2023.
Today (Monday) chairman of York RLFC Clint Goodchild issued a statement about the incident.
He said: “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.”
