In the first test between New Zealand and South Africa, the All Blacks' Brad Thorn spear-tackled John Smit (off the ball!), injuring him in the process and putting him out for the rest of the Tri-Nations. Arsehole referee Dickinson watched the thing, and did nothing. Thorn was cited, and received a one-match ban.
In the second test, Smit's replacement, Bismarck du Plessis, gouged somebody's eyes. He was cited and received a 3-week ban.
Du Plessis' suspension is entirely fair. But it's not proportionate in light of Thorn's assault on Smit. The only conclusion one can draw is that different standards are applied to All Blacks than they are to others. The fucking favourites of the auhorities. Imagine the over=reaction had Schalk Burger spear-tackled Dan Carter.
In the second test, Smit's replacement, Bismarck du Plessis, gouged somebody's eyes. He was cited and received a 3-week ban.
Du Plessis' suspension is entirely fair. But it's not proportionate in light of Thorn's assault on Smit. The only conclusion one can draw is that different standards are applied to All Blacks than they are to others. The fucking favourites of the auhorities. Imagine the over=reaction had Schalk Burger spear-tackled Dan Carter.
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