Saturday Round-Up

Lam fined for comments: Connacht head coach Pat Lam has been handed down a relatively heavy fine by the Guinness Pro12 disciplinary committee, following his comments about match official, Leighton Hodges. Having given an interview following Connacht’s clash with the Cardiff Blues, a game in which the irish province conceded a late try, Lam openly criticised the decisions made by the Welsh referee Hodges. While Lam questioned the decision of Hodges, he also called into question the very integrity of the official, something which has not been looked favourably upon by the people in charge at the Disciplinary branch of the Pro12. Having received a previous warning about a similar act of misconduct toward the end of last season in charge, Lam has been handed an €8000 fine, €5000 of which will be suspended. Lam has also been ordered to pay a significant contribution to the costs of the hearing, including the legal costs incurred by the Disciplinary Officers. Lam has the right to appeal.

Sarries CEO exit: Chief Executive Officer at Saracens, Edward Griffiths has confirmed that he will be leaving the club at the end of the current campaign, to pursue new business opportunities elsewhere. Griffiths, who has been at the club for a total of seven years, has overseen Saracens’ move to a beautiful, new permanent home in the shape of Allianz Park while also creating a club capable of competing at the very top level both on a domestic and European stage. Nigel Wray, current Chariman at the club extended his best wishes to Griffiths, hoping the club can now build on the solid foundations laid by Griffiths.

Ryan Sheady