Noble has turned the Crusaders into play-off contenders in his first season

Crusaders boss Brian Noble is under investigation by the Rugby Football League after their controversial 18-16 defeat by Hull FC on Friday.

Noble confronted referee James Child on the touchline and had to be restrained by the fourth official from going on the pitch.

It came after Child awarded a last-gasp penalty for a foul on Reece Lyne which Hull kicked to claim the win.

Noble eventually went on the pitch at the end, then stormed down the tunnel.

"He is under investigation by the RFL over events at Hull FC on Friday night," said a spokesman from the RFL.

Crusaders had clawed their way back to 16-16 after Hull had Jordan Tansey sent off.

But Lyne was ruled to have been blocked while chasing a kick in the final second, which was kicked by Danny Tickle, fuelling Noble's rage.

"I confess to being absolutely seething," Noble said after the game. "I'm as cross as a cross man in a cross shop.

"That's putting a light-hearted slant on it, but it's the hopes and aspirations of people.

"We deserved more than we got and I hope I get some decent answers but I'm not sure I will."

Crusaders remain in the last of the play-off spot at the weekend despite the defeat after rivals Castleford's crushing home defeat by Leeds.

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