Gloucester Rugby's Andy Hazell: I'd like to turn clock back
EMBARRASSSED Andy Hazell admitted he wished he could replay Thursday’s Mont de Marsan clash – and wipe out his first-ever red card.
The evergreen Gloucester flanker lost his temper under the most extreme provocation of all in rugby, alleged eye gouging.
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Gloucester openside Andy Hazell was shown a red card for his part of the melee in France but he says he was provoked. Picture: Chris Fairweather TWM
Hazell unleashed a flurry of punches on Stade Montois prop Sebastien Ormaechea, leading to his dismissal after 55 minutes in Gloucester’s 11-6 Amlin Challenge Cup victory.
Kingsholm bosses have made official complaints to citing commissioners in the wake of what they considered three deliberate and prolonged attempts to damage Hazell’s eyes.
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The Cherry and Whites submitted photographic evidence of the damage.
While accepting Hazell’s wrongdoing in reaction, Gloucester are keen to ensure Mont de Marsan’s aggressors do not go unpunished.
Lamenting his inability to stay cool in the face of mounting frustrations, Hazell tweeted: “Never had a red in 12 years, extremely embarrassed by my actions.
“It was the third time someone tried to severely injury me and I reacted.
“In a way I wish I could take (it) back. But when you are in that situation you don’t know how you would react.
“Also well done to the boys on grinding out a good away win, and thanks to the travelling supporters.”
If the ERC find any wrongdoing, several Mont de Marsan players could face lengthy bans.
Hazell will probably face a reasonably hefty censure, but both Gloucester and the flanker will accept whatever is imposed.
Comments
by Archie_Brew
Saturday, October 13 2012, 10:11AM
“I have to say that this is un-typical of AH but he will probably receive a hefty ban. Obviously, given the allegations, other incidents need to be looked at and, if anyone else is culpable, they need to be dealt with accordingly.
Thankfully we have an international class open-side in the shape of Akapusi Qera who has been sensational all season. Matt Cox would seem to be the obvious choice to provide back up from the bench, especially as he can cover all three back row positions.”