RFU to investigate Leeds Carnegie v Plymouth Albion match
The game, won 34-16 by Leeds, went to uncontested scrums after just 13 minutes
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Rugby Football Union has launched a review of last weekend's Championship fixture between Leeds Carnegie and Plymouth Albion.
The game, won 34-16 by Leeds, went to uncontested scrums after just 13 minutes.
It is understood that match referee Matt Carley made the decision after early scrums collapsed when Headingley Carnegie's new £1million pitch began cutting up.
It was the the first time Leeds Carnegie had played on the surface, although Super League champions Leeds Rhinos took on Wakefield there in a Boxing Day friendly.
In a statement, the RFU said: "The RFU is reviewing the circumstances that led to the RFU Championship fixture, Leeds Carnegie v Plymouth Albion, on Sunday January 6 moving to uncontested scrums after 13 minutes of play.
"A statement will be made in due course."
Whether or not the RFU order a replay remains to be seen.
Leeds' bonus point victory took them fourth in the Championship table as they marked their first game on home soil for three months after playing away while the new pitch was laid.
It is is understood, though, that players on both sides were baffled by Carley's decision to opt for uncontested scrums.
"I've never seen anything like it," Plymouth coach John Roberts told the club's official website.
"Our players were fine with it and wanted to carry on scrummaging.
"I am not sure what will happen next, but if the pitch wasn't good enough to play on, it shouldn't have been played on."
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments