Spencer's cup place in doubt

Northampton's Carlos Spencer has been cited for an alleged dangerous tackle.

Northampton's Carlos Spencer is to be hauled before the Rugby Football Union disciplinary committee on Monday after being cited in the EDF Energy Cup defeat to Newport Gwent Dragons.

The New Zealand fly-half was yellow carded by referee Nigel Owens after appearing to dump Gareth Cooper head-first to the turf. However, Spencer could now face further punishment after he was cited for the incident which sparked a brawl between both sides.

If found guilty, Spencer is likely to receive a three-week ban, with the RFU already setting the precedent when dealing with similar incidents involving Stuart Abbott and Paul Hodgson.

However, Spencer, who could miss the start of Northampton's Heineken Cup campaign, will receive the full backing of his club at the hearing.

Saints director of rugby, Budge Pountney, told the club's website: "We've already conducted a full internal investigation into the alleged incident.

"And we will be representing Carlos and the club with as strong a case as we can."