Hala’ufia’s 11-week ban for bad tackle

London Irish No 8 Chris Hala’ufia has been banned for 11 weeks after his citing following a Heineken Cup game.

A hearing for Hala’ufia was reconvened in Dublin yesterday, at which independent judicial officer Mark McParland imposed a suspension that will sideline the player until 17 May. He was cited for a dangerous tackle on Racing Metro full-back Gaetan Germain during a Heineken Cup pool match in Paris on December 10.

Tonga international Hala’ufia, 33, broke his arm in the same game, so the hearing was adjourned until he resumed playing again. He has a right of appeal but, as things stand, will not play for Irish again this season unless they reach the Aviva Premiership final on May 26.

McParland heard submissions from the player, who pleaded guilty, Irish manager Kieran McCarthy and forwards coach Neal Hatley, while he also received evidence and submissions from European Rugby Cup disciplinary officer Roger O’Connor.

McParland decided the offence warranted a mid-range six-week suspension but added six weeks for Hala’ufia’s poor disciplinary record and another fortnight as a deterrent.

But he also took into account the player’s guilty plea, his remorse, the injury he suffered and internal disciplinary action taken by Irish, which added up to a three-week reduction.