Samoa centre Rey Lee-Lo's high tackle vs Russia earns him three-match ban
Motu Matu'u also banned for three games
Friday 27 September 2019 13:22, UK
Samoa centre Rey Lee-Lo has received a three-match ban after being cited for a dangerous high tackle during the World Cup game against Russia.
An independent disciplinary panel ruled that the tackle was reckless, rather than deliberate, and warranted a red card.
It means that Lee-Lo will miss Samoa's remaining Pool A fixtures against Scotland, Japan and Ireland.
In a statement, World Rugby said: "The committee deemed that the incident was an act of foul play and warranted a red card in line with the high tackle sanction framework.
"There was an act of foul play (which was reckless, rather than deliberate), the act of foul play was a high tackle, there was contact with the head, there was a high degree of danger.
"The ball carrier changed height, but not sufficient to mitigate from a red card to a yellow card.
"Having acknowledged Lee-Lo's disciplinary record, good character and conduct at the hearing, the committee reduced the six-match entry point by three matches, resulting in a sanction of three matches."
Samoa hooker Motu Matu'u has also been banned for three matches following a dangerous high tackle in the same game.
The sanction applies to the next three matches Matu'u is scheduled to play in, meaning he will miss Samoa's final two pool matches and the quarter-final should they progress - or his next scheduled match with his club London Irish on October 26.
The player has the right to appeal the decision within 48 hours of receiving the written decision.
