USA flanker John Quill given three-week ban for his tackle on Owen Farrell
Friday 27 September 2019 16:44, UK
England centre Piers Francis has been cited for a dangerous tackle during Thursday's Rugby World Cup victory over the USA.
Making his World Cup debut, Francis caught USA full-back Will Hooley with his shoulder in the opening passage of the game, but did not face any on-field disciplinary action as England went on to win the Pool C encounter 45-7.
USA back-row John Quill has been handed a three-week suspension for a similar tackle he made on Owen Farrell late in the game, which saw him sent off by referee Nic Berry following consultation with the TMO.
With eliminating such tackles from the game a point of emphasis for officials going into the tournament, Francis becomes the fifth player to be cited for a dangerous high tackle after just one week of action.
Francis could now be banned for England's clash with Argentina in Tokyo next Saturday and their final Pool C fixture against France in Yokohama the following weekend.
Hooley, who was injured in a later incident having been tackled by England flanker Mark Wilson, was taken to hospital and diagnosed with a heavy concussion after the game.
Attack-coach Scott Wisemantel insisted the England camp have been impressed by the officiating in England's opening two fixtures.
"It's a tough job and we've been really happy with the referees and the assistants that we've had, so I think they've done a great job," Wisemantel said.
"All we can focus on is the guys that we get and we've been really happy.
"We've been really happy with the standard, the consistency of the refereeing and the communication. What they say before the game and what they deliver on the field is exactly the same, so it's been good."
