Queensland Reds flanker Joe Brial delivered a punch during the Super Rugby Pacific season opener against the New South Wales Waratahs, but officials took no action against him.
Incident in Sydney Showdown
The Waratahs secured a convincing 36-12 win over the Reds at Allianz Stadium. Brial, who scored one of the Reds’ two tries, struck an opponent amid the intense physical exchanges typical of the rivalry.
Referees and the television match official reviewed the play but issued no penalty, yellow card, or citing, allowing Brial to remain on the field throughout the match.1729
Game Highlights
Max Jorgensen starred for the Waratahs with two tries, while Clem Halaholo and others powered their forwards to dominance in the second half. For the Reds, Tim Ryan and Brial crossed for tries, but they faded late.54
The unpunished incident has sparked discussions among fans and analysts about officiating standards in high-stakes Super Rugby encounters.
