[Bagor]

Originally Posted by NBC

There have been no less than five tackles similar to the Warburton hit on Clerc in this current World Cup and none of them resulted in anything more than a penalty. Outside of the French coach, a plurality of commentators involved with the game did not think the tackle warranted a red card.

Wales are out of the WC, but for all intents and purposes I'd be surprised if Alain Rolland works another top-level match at this or any other major tournament.

Present these other tackles you speak off where the player was lifted off the ground and speared or dropped.

Outside of the French coach .... really? You make it sound so cut and dried when it's anything like it. See quote at end. I can present umpteen more if you want.

As for Rolland ... I guarantee you he'll be reffing for many more years to come although he won't be looking forward to his next visit to Cardiff. Why wouldn't he work another top-level match ... because he followed the laws as they were laid out to him?

Former Wales captain Robert Jones believes referee Alain Rolland was right to send off Sam Warburton in their 9-8 World Cup semi-final defeat by France in Auckland.
The Irish referee banished the flanker for a dangerous tackle on wing Vincent Clerc in the 18th minute.
Jones told BBC Radio 5 live: "The Sam Warburton decision was the right one."
But Jones says the game's rulers left Rolland with no option and should review their stance......

....."As disappointing as it is for me as a Welshman, the Sam Warburton decision was the right one.
"Initially it looked fine, like a well-made tackle. But in slow motion you can see he has lifted Vincent Clerc and dropped him.
"If you go by the letter of the law, that is a red card.
"I think they [International Rugby Board] have to look at that law, and have to give the referee the opportunity to base his decision on the way the game is going and the players involved.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/rugb...h/15323153.stm