So far, the only red cards issued in RWC 2019 have been issued to Tier 2 nations, plus Argentina, who sit outside Top 10 world rankings. No Tier 1 nation has yet suffered this fate, but if refs are consistent (yeah right), then a red card for a high, late or illegal tackle will be issued to a team in the Quarter Finals, which, more than likely, will impact the outcome of the game.
Can you imagine a Kiwi receiving a red card in their QF, resulting in an historic Japan victory? Can you imagine Owen Farrell being red carded for yet another illegal shoulder charge on that poor Aussie (that he previously floored in Autumn 2018), resulting in an English exit?
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| Owen Farrell prevents an Oz try with illegal no arms tackle |
How will RWC cope with the inevitable onslaught of criticism against the referee? How will English, Kiwi or South African commentators like Matt Dawson react, who have previously applauded such refereeing decisions, if the decision (probably not clear cut) results in their team heading home?
It will be fascinating...
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