EORL CRABTREE has admitted he’s ‘gutted’ at picking up a first ban in his glittering 13-year career.

But the 30-year-old Huddersfield Giants prop feels just as disappointed that he won’t be able to help Huddersfield secure Super League XVIII success No8 at Castleford Tigers on Saturday.

Crabtree submitted an ‘Early Guilty’ plea and accepted a one-match ban after being charged with making a Grade B dangerous throw during his side’s shock 21-20 defeat at Salford City Reds on Good Friday.

His previous unblemished record meant he was able to put in the plea and will be available for next Sunday’s home clash against Hull KR.

But even though Crabtree has claimed his challenge was a complete accident, he admits it did deserve to be punished.

“I’m obviously gutted to get a ban, although I always thought I’d get one at some point in my career,” said Crabtree, who has made 278 senior appearances (265 for the Giants and 13 with England).

“That’s not because I’m a malicious player – I’d say that’s the last thing I am! – it’s just the nature of the game and the position I play. Prop’s the most physical role there is.

“But I am disappointed the ban has stemmed from a complete accident and means I’ll miss a game just at a time when I feel my form’s getting better and better.

“There was no intent in the tackle on Ashurst, it was simply down to me not realising the tackle was completed.

“So I picked him up just as he was starting to relax and play-the-ball, which meant I picked him up with ease and it ended up becoming a spear tackle.

“It didn’t look good, I have to admit.

“I just hope the boys build on our win over Widnes with another victory on Saturday, because I’ll be feeling even worse if they don’t do it without me.”