Lawes blind-sided the French fly half when the ball was gone . Referee Nigel Owens and his video-reviewing assistant agreed that the Lawes ’ tackle was within the regulations . If it had happened in a street outside the stadium police may well have been called to investigate if there were grounds for an assault charge . The RFU are not going to be happy with this decision, but they will accept it. He subsequently apologised to his team-mates and fans . There has been no apology from Lawes for a violent act which cast a pall over an otherwise heroic England victory .
Lawes blind-sided the French fly half when the ball was gone . Referee Nigel Owens and his video-reviewing assistant agreed that the Lawes ’ tackle was within the regulations . If it had happened in a street outside the stadium police may well have been called to investigate if there were grounds for an assault charge . Steven Gerrard stamped on Ander Herrera and was sent off . He subsequently apologised to his team-mates and fans . There has been no apology from Lawes for a violent act which cast a pall over an otherwise heroic England victory .