Wallaroos and Queensland hooker Liz Patu has been suspended after appearing before a disciplinary panel this week due to a nasty incident that shocked onlookers on in Brisbane on Saturday. She has since made a public apology.
During the Queensland Women's XV and Rugby WA (Western Australia) Women at Suncorp Stadium, Patu appeared to bite into the arm of the Rugby WA's Rebecca Clough, who promptly informed the referee.
Despite video replays in the stadium clearly showing the incident, up close and multiple times, the official was not permitted to act on it.
Patu pleaded guilty to the offence and was handed a 6-week suspension.
"The entry point for a biting offence carries a 12-week suspension, however, Patu received the full 50% reduction available under World Rugby regulations due to mitigating factors and her previous good character and clean disciplinary record."
After the hearing, Patu provided the following statement:
“I’d like to express my remorse for my actions in Saturday’s match. I apologise to Rebecca Clough, the Rugby WA Women’s team, my own teammates and the wider Rugby public.
“I’ve played club, state and international Rugby and previously haven’t committed an act such as this and I accept my punishment. I want to reassure the Rugby public, administration and my fellow players, that when I return to play I will ensure that the game is played in the right spirit and do what I can to promote the Women’s game in a positive manner.
“My actions the other night were unacceptable and will not be repeated.”
credit: foxsports/nzrugbyvids