Tuitupou banned for trampling

Auckland midfielder Sam Tuitupou was banned yesterday for six weeks - the second time this season he has been suspended for trampling.

Tuitupou, who had been cited following the Lions' 17-13 win over Auckland on Tuesday at Eden Park, admitted raking Gordon D'Arcy's head.

Lions prop Graham Rowntree was also cited to appear at yesterday's judicial hearing but escaped any ban after admitting he struck Auckland lock Bryce Williams in the opening minute of the match.

Rowntree's counsel argued the action was the result of a clumsy attempt to remove Williams at the breakdown. The judiciary took into account Rowntree's exemplary record over 15 years of first-class rugby.

The Lions prop will be available for the third and final test when the Lions announce their side tonight.

Tuitupou was banned until August 19, a suspension which will eliminate him from only one NPC game, against North Harbour.

He will be unable to play for his club, Ponsonby, in the Gallaher Shield and will miss Auckland's pre-season tour to Australia.