Leinster got off to an absolute flyer in the ECC on Friday night as they lead Montpellier by a score of 14-3 thanks to two converted tries in the first 25 minutes.
The supporters in the RDS were loving life until a shocking hit from Francois Steyn on Johnny Sexton changed the mood in the crowd temporarily. Sexton had to be withdrawn from the game for a HIA, but thankfully returned not long after.
The referee took his time, and after reviewing the tackle the Montpellier man was correctly shown a red card. New rules, old rules, it doesn't matter when you come in that high, and that late. Shocking stuff.
Shane Horgan was spot on in his commentary:
Steyn is frustrated by the way Sexton has been dominating this game.
We've seen him shoot out in the line once already, but that is a really dirty challenge. He's gone over the top there, swinging arm as well, made contact with the head. That's a red.
Steyn pleaded his case, but ultimately "he bended" was not a good enough excuse.
Leinster were already threatening to run away with the game, and that task was made easier by a rush of blood to the head.
