Samoan second row sent off after reckless attempt to tackle smaller man in French second division

Vannes comfortably booked their place in the French second division play-offs with a thumping 50-10 victory over Mont-de-Marsan in the “qualifying” round at the weekend. However, the match was marred by a reckless high tackle from second row Maselino Paulino.

Already dominated on the score-board, Mont-de-Marsan were under pressure in their own half when Paulino, rushing out of the defensive line, got his timing and angle completely wrong when attempting to tackle Vannes centre Kévin Burgaud.

Needless to say, referee Cedric Marchat consulted his TMO Akim Hadj Bachir following the incident with the decision to send off Paulino coming after numerous replays.

After conceding an early try to Dorian Laborde, Vannes hit back with six tries of their own through Gwenael Duplenne, Branden Holder, Anthony Bouthier and a hat-trick from Ambrose Curtis.

Vannes will now travel to Brive for a chance to play for a place in the Top 14 next season, while Oyonnax will face Bayonne. You can watch the red card tackle below.

credit: devinza