ILKLEY’S head of rugby Rhys Morgan wants referees to take stronger action to stamp out violent play.

He made his call after his skipper Nick Carolan had to have seven stitches inserted in a bad eye wound after being punched during his side’s 39-24 National League Three North win at Stockport.

“There is no place in the game for thuggery,” said Morgan. “Referees are happy to hand out yellow cards for technical offences, but they fail to take strong action against violent conduct.

“No action was taken against the player who hit Nick. There is no place for that sort of behaviour on the rugby field, especially when we have all the new concussion protocols.

“We lost Nick for a large part of the game as he was unable to continue.” Ilkley will discuss the issue with the Australian before deciding whether to cite the offender.

“It’s up to Nick to decide what he wants to do about this,” said Morgan. Thankfully, we have no game this week, but it could be he won’t be ready to face Sheffield on Saturday week.

“I know referees have a tough job, but they need to be less ferocious on players who are a small fraction offside, and be prepared to act when there is violence that can cause serious injury.”

The Carolan incident apart, Morgan was delighted with his side’s third successive away win. He added: “We have strung together a good run which has pulled us away from the relegation zone and into mid-table.

“We are now up to eighth and the lads want to keep the run going. We are now showing the sort of consistency that breeds confidence.”