A week after France's fury at a contentious referee decision, the second test between New Zealand and Jacques Brunel's side saw an early red card that has once again provoked debate.
12 minutes in and with France 3-0 up, Benjamin Fall was sent off at Westpac Stadium after he was deemed to take Beauden Barrett out in the air. The referee went to the TMO who decided Barrett had landed on his head. Barrett was taken off and replaced by Damian McKenzie.
Benjamin Fall has been shown a red card for this challenge on Beauden Barrett. Can France fight back? Watch on Sky Sports Action and Main Event or follow our live blog: https://t.co/kqaMBcYeo3 https://t.co/OVBu5d9Ygh
— Sky Sports Rugby (@SkySportsRugby) June 16, 2018
The challenge was a red card under the letter of the law but there was some debate over the call given Anton Lienert-Brown appeared to push Fall as he was approaching the contact area.
Fall incident a red card by letter of law. Question for me is, should the laws be amended so that the All Black who pushed Fall into that position also faces punishment? It’s the All Black who contributes to the recklessness of the incident.
— Alex Shaw (@alexshawsport) June 16, 2018
Mitigating factor should be considered by TMO: Black 13 interference with fall as he approaches which changes his momentum/timing pic.twitter.com/7Yutwzb6Yt
— George Murray (@murrayg9) June 16, 2018
Benjamin Fall red card. Leinert-Brown culpable!!Checked where he was then deliberately nudged Fall before take off. Very dangerous. Test match over 👎#NZLvFRA
— Paul Grayson Rugby (@paulgrayson10) June 16, 2018
If Lienert-Brown doesn't nudge Fall off the ball, guaranteed he's up in the air earlier.
Correct decision to give the red card, but this should be a mitigating factor when the incident is reviewed. https://t.co/bV0wezFM58— Ali Stokes (@alistokesmedia) June 16, 2018
French can’t moan about that. Clear red card. Unlucky for Fall. But have to look after player. #NZLvFRA
— Nicholas Brown (@Tembz1987) June 16, 2018
The final result was 26-13 as New Zealand secured the series.
