French duo cited after biting storm mars Ireland's World Cup exit

French forward Axelle Berthoumieu cited for biting while teammate Manaé Felu also facing sanction over a dangerous tackle

FLASH POINT: France’s Axelle Berthoumieu bites the arm of Aoife Wafer of Ireland. Pic: INPHO/Ben Brady

Two French players have been cited in the wake of Ireland's heartbreaking Women's World Cup exit at the quarter-final stage on Sunday. 

Ireland captain Sam Monaghan and star Aoife Wafer both raised concerns to referee Aimee Barrett Theron over an alleged biting incident during the 18-13 defeat at Sandy Park in Exeter. 

Video footage showed French forward Axelle Berthoumieu’s mouth move onto her rival back-rower’s forearm as they contested a ruck on the ground in the 42nd minute as Ireland led 13-0, with Wafer emerging from contact clutching the area and repeatedly mouthing: “She bit me."

While no action was taken during the match, World Rugby confirmed that Berthoumieu was indeed facing sanction as she was cited for a bite. Meanwhile her teammate Manaé Felu was also cited for a dangerous tackle and could also find herself on the sidelines for the semi-final clash with host nation England in Bristol next Sunday.