I think the Dragons were just waiting to see if there was any point in mounting an appeal. It's all well and good to say the Dragons must fight this but if they have nothing new to offer then why put Smith and themselves through any more hassle.
The fact that they are having a go means that they think they can win.
I've said before that Smith has Buckley's chance of winning an appeal but I've since changed my mind.
A lot has happened over the last week and there is growing support for Smith. The media hysteria over Walters' injury has subsided and even Bennett has come to terms with the'news' that he should concentrate on his own problems.
The fact is, Jim Hall was wrong. He made an error ofbias by declaring that Smith's tackle had: "...forceful, deliberate or highly reckless contact....There was no need for Smith to lead with his elbow as he fell to the ground on the defenceless Bronco halfback."
Not only was Jim Hall showing a lack of partiality but he was also wrong by trying to assume intent.
Unfortunately, the will of the other three panelists, Darrell Williams, Royce Ayliffe, Ian Roberts was weak to say the least.
It's a rare thing, but Smith might just win this appeal.
BTW, Johnsy:
The pass in Friday's match wasn't forward. It came off the arm of a Newcastle player. Dare I say... Harrigan got it right....!
