Hooper issued off-field yellow

BRUMBIES OPENSIDE flanker Michael Hooper has received an off-field yellow card for his tip-tackle on Hurricanes No 8 Victor Vito, meaning he is free to play against the Reds this Saturday.

Hooper was cited for the incident, which occurred in the 48th minute of the match between the two sides last week, and faced possible suspension.

However, SANZAR judicial officer Nick Davidson found that the tackle was at the low end of the scale after reviewing video footage and hearing submissions from Hooper and referee Mark Lawrence.

Hooper’s excellent disciplinary record was also taken into account when Davidson issued his verdict.

“The referee was emphatic that the penalty was sufficient and reflected a lifting and losing control rather than a tipping or driving [tackle],” says Davidson.

“The evidence did not establish a lift in the ordinary way, but that Hooper did contribute to the tipping which partly rose from the destabilised position of the ball carrier in driving the tackler back with his right leg high.”