Bristol Bears disciplinary update

Bristol Bears' Charlie Powell appeared before an independent disciplinary panel last night (Wednesday 24 November 2021).

Powell was shown a red card by referee Anthony Woodthorpe in the 38th minute of the match between Worcester Warriors and Bristol Bears on Saturday 20 November 2021. This was for tackling the jumper in the air, contrary to World Rugby Law 9.17.

Powell accepted the charge and was given a four match suspension by the independent disciplinary panel comprising Richard Whittam QC (chair), Martyn Wood and Tom Smallbone. He is free to play again on 21 December 2021.

Independent disciplinary panel statement: "The panel accepted that this incident was the result of poor timing by the player. The Worcester player was recklessly contacted in the air whilst in a vulnerable position and he landed such that his head/neck area made contact with the ground in a potentially dangerous manner.  The panel found that this was a mid-range entry point which carries an 8-week entry point.

"The panel noted that the player accepted the charge, has a clean disciplinary record and clearly was very remorseful and apologetic for his actions both on field at the time and afterwards. The panel had allowed the full mitigation of 50%.

"The club assisted the panel with the player's upcoming fixtures and the panel were satisfied that he should miss the next 4 matches for Bristol Bears."