Cardiff full-back Cam Winnett was on the receiving end of a brutal red card challenge during his side’s URC clash with the Sharks.
The Wales international was making a trademark surging run forwards in the first half of the match in Durban when he was flattened by a flying hit from flanker Tino Mavesere.
After being knocked to the ground, Winnett was able to get to his feet straight away but the challenge was immediately reviewed for foul play. Replays showed the extent of the hit, with Mavesere rushing in to tackle at great speed and his shoulder making clear contact with the Welshman’s face.
It was a clear red card and after a TMO review, the Sharks back row was given his marching orders by referee Frank Murphy, leaving his side a man down with just over an hour left to play.
Matt Sherratt’s side, who were already a try up, took full advantage of their extra man, with Ben Donnell crossing for his first try for the club moments later. Further scores from Willis Halaholo, James Botham and Mason Grady meant that Cardiff would return home from South Africa with a bonus point.
But while Mavesere was punished and the Blue & Blacks secured their fourth win of the league campaign, Cardiff fans were left unimpressed with the length of time it took for the flanker to be sent off, as well as the decision to keep Winnett on the field and not take him off for an HIA.
“The time taken for Ref and TMO to decide on red for the head high tackle on Cam Winnett,” wrote one viewer as they added a ‘facepalm’ emoji. Another added: “Murphy asks for a yellow… That’s as red as red can be.”
Winnett would go on to play nearly the entire game, being withdrawn for Jacob Beetham in the 71st minute – but many of those watching argued he should have been taken off to be assessed after the heavy blow to the head.
“Cameron Winnett needs to go off for a HIA check there,” wrote one. “That was a shoulder straight to his jaw and he looked out of it for a couple of seconds. By the way, 100% red.”
“Clear shot to head,” added another. “Red card all day long but surely Cam needs an HIA assessment. Player safety should be paramount.”
“Winnett was defo out there, should go off for HIA,” a third viewer commented, while another added: “Winnett shouldn’t really still be on the pitch.”