RWC 2015: Scotland could be without Ross Ford and Jonny Gray for Australia quarter-final after pair are cited

Both have been cited for tackles made in the 36-33 victory over Samoa on Saturday

Jonny Gray could miss the quarter-final against the Wallabies after being cited for a tackle against Samoa (Getty Images)

Scotland could head into their Rugby World Cup quarter-final against Australia without two of their key players after Ross Ford and Jonny Gray were both cited for incidents in the 36-33 win over Samoa on Saturday.

Needing a win to reach the quarter-finals, Scotland nearly came unstuck against a Samoan side that had largely disappointed throughout the World Cup only to find their form in the St James’ Park encounter.

Scotland had to fight from behind to claim victory, which proved to be crucial after Japan secured a third pool triumph in Sunday’s 28-18 win over the United States which would have knocked the Scots out had they lost to the Samoans.

Ross Ford has been cited for a tackle made against Samoa (Getty Images)

However, both the hooker Ford and the second-row Gray have been cited by independent Citing Commissioner Scott Nowland for two individual tackles during the match in Newcastle. Ford’scharge relates to an alleged act of foul play contrary to Law 10.4 (e) that deals with dangerous tackles, while Gray has been cited in relation to Law 10.4 (j) that deals with tip tackles.

Both players will face a hearing on Tuesday, and the case will be heard by independent Judicial Officer Christopher Quinlan QC of England.