The Citing Commissioners Decision On Yoann Maestri’s Cheap Shot On Johnny Sexton Will Infuriate Irish Fans

Yoann Maestri is free to face Wales in 11 days time after escaping with only a warning for Saturday’s late challenge on Johnny Sexton at the Stade de France.

Referee Jaco Peyper awarded a penalty to Ireland though he felt the incident merited no further punishment or investigation by the TMO. Ireland fans will no doubt be infuriated as they felt the incident was cheap and premeditated on a vulnerable Sexton.

The citing commissioner concluded that Maestri’s actions were ‘just short of’ meriting a red card.

A Citing Commissioner Warning has been issued to the French second row, Yoann Maestri, following an incident in the 13th minute of the match between France and Ireland on Saturday, 13 February 2016 in the RBS Six Nations Championship. The independent citing commissioner reported that Mr Maestri had used his shoulder in making contact with the Ireland outside-half, Johnny Sexton, which resulted in Mr Sexton being knocked off his feet. The citing commissioner concluded that Mr Maestri has infringed the World Rugby’s laws of the game and that his actions fell ‘just short of’ warranting a red card. Mr Maestri has been informed of the Citing Commissioner Warning.