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Subscribe to RSS FeedSamoa appeal Lima ban
Warned: Brian Lima
Samoa have appealed against centre Brian Lima's three-week suspension for a dangerous tackle on England star Jonny Wilkinson.
Lima, the only player to feature in five World Cups, was banned by tournament judicial officer Professor Lorne Crerar.
The 35-year-old was cited by match commissioner, New Zealander Steven Hines, with the ban ruling him out of Samoa's Pool A finale against America on Wednesday.
"We are pursuing it out of principle," said Samoa coach Michael Jones.
"We have looked at some of the more serious offences that have got a week or two weeks, so just like the referee, all we are asking for is consistency.
"The fact is, it would have been his last game after 18 years playing in five World Cups, so it is a tragedy for him and Samoa and all the supporters of the world who loved watching Brian play.
"The real pity is this is the first time in 18 years he has ever been cited."
