JUSTIN Carney is at the centre of a race row after being sent off for allegedly abusing Toronto’s Ryan Bailey.
The Red Devils’ winger was given a straight red card by ref Jack Smith on 28 minutes of Sunday’s Challenge Cup clash.
And the alleged racism emerged following an incident that saw the former Leeds star Bailey, who is black, react strongly.
Salford coach Ian Watson could not comment on the details of why Carney was sent off as he had not received full details.
However, sources said the red card was believed to relate to racist language, with Carney denying the accusations, insisting he said ‘fat’.
The 28-year-old is likely to be charged by the Rugby Football League today, once it has received Smith’s report.
Any disciplinary hearing will take place tomorrow, with a lengthy ban likely if Carney, whose dad is believed to be black, is found guilty.
The row overshadowed Salford’s 29-22 win as the Wolfpack showed why they are being tipped by many to go straight from League One into Super League.
Watson said: “I wouldn’t like to say anything because I haven’t received the reports from the officials.
“And I wouldn’t like to comment on any of the ref’s decisions. They have a tough job sometimes.
“But if we’d have taken this game lightly, we could’ve got our bums smacked and lost. Toronto may be in League One but they’re not a League One team.”
A club statement said: “Salford Red Devils have launched a investigation into events leading to the dismissal of winger Justin Carney in the 29-22 win over Toronto Wolfpack in the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup.
“The club will work closely with the RFL and all parties involved over the coming days to investigate the incident thoroughly.
“Neither the Red Devils nor the player will be releasing any further comment at this stage.”
Toronto led until 35 minutes after Ryan Brierley’s classy try on debut after moving from Huddersfield.
But second tries for Greg Johnson and Kris Welham, followed by Gareth O’Brien’s score, turned the scoreboard around.
The Red Devils full-back booted a drop goal before going off with a head injury, meaning Fuifui Moimoi’s last-gasp try was in vain.
But Toronto boss Paul Rowley, who lost James Laithwaite to a neck injury that saw him rushed to hospital, only to be later given the all clear, believed the red card counted against them.
He said: “That probably wasn’t a good thing for us as it altered our mindset. I think we let Salford off the hook.”
RICK Stone is under increasing pressure as Huddersfield coach after they were dumped out of the Cup by Championship side Swinton 28-24.
Luke Waterworth’s try sealed the win after Izaac Farrell converted Oliver Roberts’ try to put the Giants ahead.
And Aussie boss Stone is certain to be under scrutiny after this disastrous loss, while Huddersfield sit second bottom in Super League.
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