Robinson has been an NRL referee since 2003

Leeds complained about racial abuse by a Manly player during the Carnegie World Club Challenge, it has emerged.

Australian ref Jason Robinson revealed that Leeds hooker Matt Diskin and captain Kevin Sinfield both made the allegation during the match on 1 March.

"Diskin indicated a racial comment had been made. No name was mentioned," he told Aussie magazine Rugby League Week.

"Then, when I called out Sinfield he mentioned it again to the effect of 'is he allowed to get away with that?'."

Robinson said he told Sinfield: "You need to go through official channels for that, Kevin."

He added: "I am not sure what the exact procedure is for a World Club Challenge. I would have certainly included it in my report if that's what he wanted, but he did not want to take it further."

The claim is a further embarrassment for the Sea Eagles just days before they launch the defence of their NRL crown.

Full-back Brett Stewart, the two-try hero of their 28-20 win over Leeds, has been arrested for an alleged sexual assault.

Second row Anthony Watmough, who was man of the match, is alleged to have punched a sponsor at the club's season launch.

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