Betts hits out at ref Hicks

Widnes boss Denis Betts hit out at referee Robert Hicks after Gareth Hock was sent off for dissent in their Super League draw against Bradford.

Betts saluted his 12-man side after they clawed back to snatch a thrilling 22-22 home draw but slammed afterwards: "It was an atrocious decision and an absolute joke."

The England forward, on loan from Wigan, was red-carded on the half hour by Hicks for dissent after Matt Diskin bagged the Bulls third touchdown to stretch their advantage to 16-4.

Betts said: "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."

Widnes were 20-4 down at half-time but scored three tries without reply in the second half with a Patrick Ah Van penalty five minutes from time earning a point.

However, Betts was pleased with this team's battling qualities.

He said: "It was an epic second half and a great performance of endeavour and enthusiasm.

"We could not get a grip on the game at first but got stronger and had great self-belief.

"We fought as hard as we could and even had opportunities to win it."

Bradford coach Francis Cummins said: "You can't play without the ball and we couldn't put any pressure on Widnes in the second half.

"We had a few guys busted and the penalty count was surprising - but no excuses.

"I cannot fault my players for their effort but it was an awakening after Sunday's good result over Huddersfield."

Cummins also revealed three injury concerns, with Jamie Langley suffering a groin injury and Matty Blythe and Chev Walker picking up ankle problems.