“Paul Vaughan will help Warrington’s play-off bid in other ways after heartbreak suspension”
PAUL Vaughan is ready to be a disgruntled spectator after being left out of Warrington’s play-off push.
The Wolves prop was banned for four games for tugging on the jersey of St Helens’ Sione Mata’utia in the final seconds of the 12-10 defeat.
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The disciplinary authorities felt he had lifted a possibly injured player off the deck, so the punishment meant he would miss the grand final if they managed it.
That means he will be in the stands when the teams meet again in Saturday’s elimination game with their season on the line.
And he gets his lip bitten almost as much as his teeth are gnashed, especially after his performances saw him make it into the Super League Dream Team.
Australian Vaughan, 32, said: “I was tough. When we argued our case on appeal I found it quite disappointing.
“I respect the rule and why it is there – for the benefit of the players – although I thought it could have gone differently.
“It was bittersweet. I got hit with the suspension and then I was told I was on the Dream Team, so I was happy about that.
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“But I would like to play. I would give anything to be able to play this weekend.”
Despite his suspension, Vaughan will continue to play a big role as Gary Chambers’ side travel to St Helens looking to end their four-year reign as champions.
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But it will still be a difficult task, as he added: “I just want us to do well, so I’m going to go in, be positive and push the players as best I can.”
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“I want them to make it to the end and I would love to see them have a successful finals series – but I’m a terrible observer, shocking, really, really bad.
“It’s hard for me to bite my tongue when I’m on the sidelines.”