Following an eight hour wait on Tuesday, the verdict eventually came in from Sean O'Brien's citing hearing. The back row was initially suspended for two weeks but had it reduced to one - meaning he could play in a World Cup semi-final should Ireland progress past Argentina on Sunday.
O'Brien had been cited for punching French lock Pascal Pape during Ireland's Pool D decider win last weekend.
Reaction was one of relief in Ireland. Outside, it was incredulity, especially from members of the media across the Irish Sea.
Over in France, 20minutes.fr published an article titled 'Why Sean O'Brien's pseudo-suspension is a big scandal?' and argued why just a one-week ban is ludicrous.
They also posted some Vines imagining what mitigating factors the Leinster man may have put forward during the hearing.
In each Vine, there's a punch followed by the recipient saying 'But can't do that!' and then the excuse.
1. 'It was an open hand, not a real punch'
2. 'I am consumed with remorse'
3. 'I don't know what came over me'
4. 'But I like flowers and kittens'
h/t Independent.ie
