Vuna the Rebel cited for spear tackle
The Rebels may pay a dear price for their lack of discipline in the 12-43 defeat against the Highlanders in Invercargill on Friday.
Not only was Rebels centre Lloyd Johansson put on report (issued simultaneously with a yellow and white card) in the 22nd minute – for a tip-tackle on the Highlanders’ England international, flank James Haskell – but wing Cooper Vuna has been also cited for a spear tackle.
Both incidents took place off the ball.
Referee Marius Jonker took stern action against Johansson, issuing him with the yellow and white cards, following consultation with one of his assistants.
However, he only penalised Vuna – without issuing any cards – after a report from his assistant referee.
Vuna is alleged to have contravened Law 10.4 (j), when he lifted Highlanders wing Kade Poki in a tackle and dropped him to the ground with no regard for his safety.
Poki’s shoulder and upper back contacted the ground in a manner that placed his head and neck at risk of injury in the 56th minute of the match.
Upon further review of the match footage the citing commissioner deemed in his opinion the incident had met the Red Card threshold for foul play
The Citing is to be considered in the first instance by SANZAR Duty Judicial Officer Mike Heron.
