Video: Spencer's straight red card opens can of worms
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: Leicester Tigers Will Spencer is due to appear before an independent disciplinary panel after controversial red card.
Spencer was handed a red card during Leicester Tigers’ defeat to Wasps in the 40th minute.
Referee Ian Tempest opted to hand the 26-year-old the straight red for what he deemed as a dangerous tackle on Wasps’ Tommy Taylor contrary to law 9.13.
However, it seems like the red card has caused a stir in the rugby fraternity.
Following the match, many took to Twitter to display their resentment over the card.
How is that a red card?? Have to feel for Will Spencer there. I understand protecting players but that’s ridiculous.
— Matt Garvey (@MattGarvey5) September 16, 2018
Leicester Tigers coach Geordan Murphy revealed that that rugby has “gone too PC”, while captain Tom Youngs, who could be heard saying “Rugby’s changed” just after the red card was shown by referee Tempest.
Murphy then followed up with a post-match interview where he stated: “I think the games gone a little bit too PC” [politically correct] and touched on the fact that Spencer is extremely tall and struggled to get down that low to make a legal tackle.
Murphy also suggested that his ‘solution’ will be to pick players under five foot, which will make it very difficult to referee.
According to the laws right now, the decision appeared to be correct, as Spencer’s shoulder did hit Taylor’s face. Intent does not come into the equation.
The Tigers lock will have to face a disciplinary hearing in Bristol on Tuesday.
Wasps coach Dai Young had sympathy for Spencer, but felt it was the correct call.
“We’ve had the directive that any tackle direct to the head is a red card. It’s harsh and I’d have been disappointed if it was on our side, but I totally understand.
“I don’t think it’s something the referee should be criticised for. If it was a yellow card I wouldn’t have complained about it. I hope the player doesn’t get banned for it. It’s difficult to get that 100 per cent right every time.
“We have to protect the players. The guys who are saying the game’s gone soft are guys who are not out there,” he said.
Source: Rugbydump
