England coach Tony Smith wants penalty count tackled

England Coach Tony Smith has said that he thinks penalties are slowing down games.

Tony Smith has called coaches and players to help reduce the number of penalties.

Wigan's win over Wakefield last week saw a record 32 penalties awarded, and Smith says the average of 17 per game needs to be reduced.

Figures indicate interference at the play-ball has accounted for nearly one in three penalties this season, with offside at the play ball one in five.