Miller lifts lid on tribunal snub as Castleford star banned for crucial clash

07 September 2023 , 13:46

661     0

Castleford's Jacob Miller (Image: Greig Cowie/REX/Shutterstock)

Gutted Jacob Miller admits it’s “disappointing” missing out on relegation-threatened Castleford’s crunch game with Hull due to suspension.

The influential Aussie half-back was hit with a one-match ban for a dangerous throw on Pete Mata’utia which saw him sin-binned in Saturday’s 66-12 hammering at Warrington. It couldn’t have come at a worse time for Tigers who are just two points above bottom-placed Wakefield with only three games to go. Miller, 31, failed in his appeal to have it overturned on Tuesday night so must nervously sit on the sidelines as his team-mates bid to get them a crucial victory in their last home fixture of the season.

He said: “I was hopeful and thought we had a decent case to get it thrown out. We also had some words from Pete (Mata’utia) to say he never felt vulnerable or in a dangerous position so I am disappointed we didn’t get a result. At the same time, you know you’re up against it whenever you go against them (operational rules tribunal).

“You have to try your best but they didn’t want a bar of it. It was my first experience of the appeal process and I know not many get overturned.”

Miller has almost been ever-present since joining from Wakefield at the end of last season. The ex-Hull schemer will be back for the trip to leaders Wigan and derby against Leeds on the final day. He said: “I missed a game for a HIA after I got caught high in the Catalans match.

Gay rugby league referee lifts lid on how coming out affected officiating career

Castleford's Jacob Miller (Anna Gowthorpe/REX/Shutterstock)

“Although I don’t think their guy missed one! It’s always disappointing. You like to always play your part for the team so it is hard missing such a big game. We know our form hasn’t been good enough all season but Friday is our best opportunity to turn it around.

"When you look on paper, knowing Hull are missing quite a few players, this is probably our best chance of a win and one where we could throw all our eggs at it. Wigan are top and going for the League Leaders'. But it is what it is and there’s nothing I can do now. Hopefully the boys can get the job done.”

David Craven