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Is this the softest red card in history? Sergio Parisse sent off in bizarre circumstances
By RugbyPass
The opening round of the Top 14 saw one of the most puzzling red cards in history over the weekend.
Italian Sergio Parisse was sent off for an 'elbow to the face' of an opponent during a match between Stade Francais and Perpignan. The catch? Parisse had the ball, after just fielding a kickoff.
Bracing for impact, Parisse shielded himself from the defender who took a very poor angle - flying in at the Number 8 with very questionable technique before his head collided with Parisse's shoulder.
The referees reportedly followed protocol as there was contact between the Parisian's elbow and the defender's head, but the circumstances are very harsh on a player protecting himself from the oncoming kickoff defence.
Parisse, the captain of his side, protested in vain as the referees consulted with the third match official. The referees described the red card as 'severe' which raises questions as to why common sense didn't prevail. The captain left the field in visible confusion, almost throwing his mouthguard away in a display of disgust.
Is this the worst red card decision ever?
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Latest Comments
Liverpool? OK, whatever you say 🤷♂️ You spelt Syringeboks wrong, need to calm down a bit and wipe the tears from your eyes.
Go to commentsThat absolute BS, when did you come up with this idea?
All three were well on track to being All Blacks. They simply decided it was smarter to take the money right now rather than slog on for another 3 or 4 years waiting for their opportunity to line up.
Many AB quality players have not even got the chance to earn a cap for heavens sake, it is simply as you suggest elsewhere, better utilization of global talent to have them qualify for another nation.
The only problem is that the ABs get all the best players, mostly because they pay more, and the island nations, even the home nations, just get those that can't make it or want a bit more limelight.
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