Players know the laws, so why do they continue to produce tackles like this?
The last couple of Six Nations championships have been littered with red cards, with players continuing to be penalised for high tackles.
This afternoon's clash between Ireland and England was billed as one of the biggest games of the tournament, although the home side would have their task made a lot more difficult inside the opening couple of minutes.
In the opening exchanges, English second-row Charlie Ewels would produce a sickening high hit on James Ryan. While it was missed by the officials at the time, replays clearly showed that the 26-year old made contact with Ryan's head.
England receive red card 82 seconds into Ireland Six Nations clash
After discussing the incident with the TMO, the referee had little option but to produce a red card only 82 seconds into the game.
After just 82 seconds, England are down to 14 men. Charlie Ewels receives a red card for this challenge on James Ryan.
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Unfortunately, James Ryan would be forced off due to the tackle.
While nobody wants to see a red card this early into a big game, there was no alternative on this occasion.
James Ryan is 6ft8in.
If you're tackling him head-on-head, you're doing something dangerous! #ENGvIRE— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) March 12, 2022
It certainly gave Ireland a huge advantage in this one.
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