Super rugby: Coaches support options after card ruins contest

Daryl Gibson and Tony Brown, above, both agreed a report system could be beneficial. Photo / File

A red card shown to Sunwolves wing Semisi Masirewa has reopened the debate about sanctions, with opposing Kiwi coaches Daryl Gibson and Tony Brown agreeing a report system could improve the game.

Masirewa was due to face a Super Rugby judiciary last night after being sent off just before halftime for a lifting tackle on Waratahs first-five Bernard Foley, who hit the ground head first.

The Sunwolves, last in the competition, had been competitive before then and led the Waratahs 18-12 in Sydney, but after Masirewa left, the match turned into a procession for the home side and the Waratahs won 77-25.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen last month brought up the possibility of players going on report rather than being sent off after France fullback Benjamin Fall was red carded in Wellington for his mid-air challenge against Beauden Barrett, a sanction a judicial panel later rescinded.

Gibson and Brown both agreed a report system could be beneficial.

"I don't think there's any intent in there. It was just unfortunate," Sunwolves coach Brown said.

"I think it was Steve Hansen said that just put players on report like they do in [rugby] league and play on.

Waratahs coach Gibson said: "I certainly support that. The effect it [the red card] has on the game, it takes away the contest.

"In that instance [with Masirewa], the referee has no option. He's following the letter of the law and that's what he's required to do. Having an intermediary step that's not quite a red card, give him some options - sensible."