La Rochelle pillars Uini Atonio and Reda Wardi, who received a red card during the Top 14 semi-final lost to Toulouse (39-23) on June 21, have been suspended for four weeks, the National Rugby League (LNR) announced on Wednesday.
Atonio was found responsible for “dangerous play” towards Toulouse second row Thibaud Flament, and more specifically for “tackling an opponent in anticipation, late or in a dangerous manner”, wrote the LNR in a press release.
This gesture is normally punishable by a six-week suspension. But, after taking into account several circumstances, the League’s disciplinary committee reduced the sanction to four weeks.
Wardi also suspended
As for Wardi, found responsible for “brutality”, and more specifically for having hit “with the head” Stade Toulousain hooker Julien Marchand, he was also suspended for four weeks.
“Given the schedule of matches, in particular, of Stade Rochelais, the requalification date” of the two pillars will be communicated later, specifies the LNR. These decisions are subject to appeal before the appeal committee of the French Rugby Federation (FFR) within seven days, concludes the press release. The Top 14 will resume on September 7.
