ERC to consider new citing system

EUROPEAN Rugby Cup bosses will seriously consider the introduction of an independent citing system for next year’s Heineken Cup.

Chief executive Derek McGrath admitted yesterday that the organisers will have to look seriously at the position following a series of protests at the current system.

The most recent came from coach Matt Williams after Leinster abandoned plans to cite Montferrand winger David Bory on foot of legal advice.

Williams attacked the current system which allows for limited action and puts a heavy burden of proof on any team drawing up a complaint.

Williams believes there should be a totally independent citing commissioner at all Heineken Cup matches and that this individual should have the power to cite players on foot of complaints.

The problem, it appears, from ERC’s point of view is resources.

McGrath explained yesterday: “The situation is that video evidence would have to be brought into each and every equation. At the moment, not all of the games are being televised and some of them are not available on video either.

“It is impossible for us to have one set of rules for one game and some others for another.”

But he did admit it would have to be on the agenda for serious discussion.

“We have experienced too much tit for tat citing complaints and it has all become a bit unsavoury.

“We will have to give consideration to a new system and it would probably have to be done through the appointing of an independent body.

“At this stage of the season there is nothing we can do, but the tournament has become so popular that many more games are being televised.

“If video equipment could be placed at all grounds the problem would be solved.

“We will have to sit down and see whether that is an option from a financial and technical point of view.”