O'Connor suspended for a dangerous tackle on James Horwill

Emirates Western Force back James O’Connor will miss the club’s final match of the season against the Rebels in Melbourne on Friday night after being suspended at a SANZAR hearing. O’Connor was found guilty of dangerous play after being cited under Foul Play Law 10.4 (j) for the dangerous lifting and dropping of Reds captain James Horwill.

The incident took place in the opening half of the club’s Super Rugby match at nib Stadium on Saturday evening and O’Connor was cited by video following the game. After a hearing, SANZAR Judicial Officer, Michael Cashman found the offence proved and categorised it at the low end of seriousness. Taking account of mitigating factors and noting the absence of any aggravating features, he reduced the sanction of three weeks to a one week suspension. This is the first time O’Connor has appeared before a SANZAR tribunal in his 38 match Super Rugby career.

The Emirates Western Force will not appeal the sanction.