A massive hit from Ireland centre Bundee Aki has set social media alight, leaving both fans and pundits divided on whether the tackle was legal.
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The Decision: TMO Steps In
After a review by TMO Leo Colgan, the tackle was deemed perfectly legal. “Execution pin-point from Bundee Aki,” noted commentator Morris, with Andrew Osborne, the unfortunate recipient of the hit, “still feeling it.”
Tom May Fires Up the Debate
Former England star Tom May took to X (formerly Twitter) to get the ball rolling:
“Good tackle? Bad tackle? Surely this is going to properly divide opinion. Thoughts?”
The Experts Weigh In
Rugby journalist Paul Williams chimed in with his perspective:
“We all want greater player safety. But that is a fantastic tackle. It just looks bad due to Aki’s power. Correct shoulder, low enough, wrap.”
Fans Enter the Chat
The debate didn’t stop there. One fan defended Aki’s technique, explaining:
“First contact is clearly below the shoulder & he makes an attempt to wrap. Only issue is he hits him so hard it makes the wrap nigh on impossible & makes it look like head contact from folding the ball carrier. All for making the game safer, but these tackles aren’t the issue.”
But not everyone was convinced. Another fan raised concerns:
“Too high, look what it has done to the head due to the proximity of the tackler’s shoulder to the player’s head. If the player had dived a split second earlier, he’d have taken off the other player’s head. Should have got his shoulders a full foot lower.”
A Ref’s Perspective
A former referee added his voice to the conversation:
“I can’t decide. As a former ref, I’m glad I wasn’t reffing this as I’m not convinced he didn’t lead with the shoulder, and I don’t think there’s enough attempt to wrap. Rugby is tying itself in knots, but those saying ‘the game’s gone soft’ aren’t thinking about player welfare.”
5 England Hopefuls Who Bottled It This Weekend
The Premiership action this weekend saw some England hopefuls looking to make their mark. Unfortunately, for a few, things didn’t quite go to plan.
Here’s a look at five players who’ll be hoping for a quick turnaround after a tough weekend on the pitch.
Rus Tuima – Exeter Chiefs
Exeter Chiefs were left reeling as Newcastle Falcons snapped their 25-match losing streak with a 25-18 win. Tuima, who’s been in the conversation for England, had a day to forget.
His biggest issue? Giving away careless penalties in the middle of the field. These gave Newcastle perfect opportunities to kick for the corner, setting up camp in Exeter’s half and ultimately piling on the pressure. For Tuima, this was definitely one of those “could’ve done better” days.
Ethan Roots – Exeter Chiefs
It was a rough week for Roots. Dropped from the England squad ahead of the Autumn internationals, the flanker had a chance to make a statement against Newcastle. But instead, his frustrations got the better of him.
A reckless late hit on Falcons fly-half Grayson gave away a penalty at a crucial moment, allowing Newcastle to relieve the pressure and gain valuable ground. Petulant moments like this won’t win you points in the England selection room.
