'Just my opinion': Rassie shows support for Farrell
REACTION: South Africa’s Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus took to social media to show his support for Ireland’s head coach Andy Farrell.
Farrell’s son, Owen, has dominated headlines this week with the disciplinary process around his head-high tackle in England’s 19-17 win over Wales at Twickenham last weekend.
The England captain had his red card for the incident rescinded after a disciplinary hearing before World Rugby stated that they would appeal the decision.
In the aftermath, Farrell senior described the fall-out surrounding the saga as a “circus”.
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#⃣REACTION: @IrishRugby coach Andy Farrell slammed much of the commentary surrounding son @owen_faz 🤬#Rugby 🏉#RugbyUnion🌏
🔗https://t.co/ofXrPHUx1j pic.twitter.com/x7YzmsjJOq— rugby365.com (@rugby365com) August 18, 2023
“The circus that’s gone on, in and around all of this, is absolutely disgusting, in my opinion, disgusting,” said the Ireland coach.
He conceded his view on the situation is not impartial
“Whatever I say is probably flawed anyway,” added the 48-year-old Ireland coach. “I don’t normally say too much because of that type of reason about my son.”
On Friday, Erasmus wanted to get some off his chest on Twitter
“Just my opinion: Andy Farrel is just a great coach, man and father!” said Erasmus.
“From one of the toughest players in both codes to coaching English and Irish players [taking them to N01 in the world].”
Erasmus added: “Also handling what must be a bit of [an] emotional situation with his son the way he does.”
England head coach Steve Borthwick left Owen Farrell out of his matchday squad for Saturday’s World Cup warm-up clash against Ireland in Dublin.
Just my opinion: Andy Farrel just a great coach,man and father! From one of the toughest players in both codes to coaching English and Irish players(taking them to 1 in the world) Also handling what must be a bit of emotional situation with his son the way he does 🤝
— Rassie Erasmus (@RassieRugby) August 18, 2023