Tackling interpretations now deciding match outcomes

For the second week in a row, the quality of rugby on offer across the Heineken Champions Cup pool fixtures has been overshadowed by decisions made by referees and their interpretation of tackling laws, writes Donal Lenihan

BT Sports’ co-commentary team of Austin Healey and David Flatman were solidly of the view that Kaino just stood his ground and that Roberts ran straight into the teak-tough No 8, not a good idea at the best of times, even for a player as imposing as the Lions centre.

The two former England internationals were at one in claiming the incident didn’t even warrant a penalty as Roberts dipped his head and charged into the New Zealander. Subsequently cited, Kaino was forced to sit out last Sunday’s clash against Leinster after he was suspended for five weeks by EPCR’s disciplinary committee who viewed the incident as a red card offence.