Racing ran out comfortable 44-12 winners against Ulster at the Paris La Défense Arena in a convincing bonus point victory.
After a bright start, Dan McFarland's side faded from the game and were soundly beaten in the end. Scottish out-half Finn Russell was in spectacular form, landing 20 points from the boot. However, Simon Zebo attracted some criticism for taunting Ulster 20-year-old Michael Lowry as he strolled in to complete the hammering.
In fairness to the former Munster man, he immediately apologised when referee Nigel Owens flagged it with him. "I don't think you need to do that" Owens said to Zebo.
Simon Zebo taunts his opponent as he scores ?
Nigel Owens isn't impressed ?
Simon Zebo apologises ?Great refereeing @Nigelrefowens! pic.twitter.com/OoPjDJ2jLA
— Watch the Heineken Champions Cup on BT Sport (@btsportrugby) October 20, 2018
The incident drew condemnation from viewers, many of whom felt it was disrespectful.
That is very good reffing by Owens.
Zebo taunting the would-be tackler as he crosses the try line - the sort of thing that can do nothing but start something bad.
A quiet word from Nigel suggesting that Zeebs apologises.
Bravo.— Andy McGeady (@andymcgeady) October 20, 2018
Good to see Nigel Owens telling Simon Zebo to apologise for that not very classy try celebration and good to see Zebo apologising to Lowry. Values of the game are important.
— Simon Thomas (@simonrug) October 20, 2018
Good to see @Stuart_Mc12 call @SimonZebo out for his actions against @michaellowry15
— Mark Purse (@rugby1968) October 20, 2018
Disappointed to see a player I’ve supported in green behave like that and especially so when it’s towards a player at the start of his career. Poor form from @SimonZebo and goes completely against the grain of the respect I’ve previously watched between all Irish players.
— Richard Tanswell (@richardt84) October 20, 2018
Zebo took to Twitter to apologise.
Really sorry to Michael Lowry
Got too excited and I don’t do stuff like that as long as I’ve played.
I wouldn’t like my kids doing that and I’m disappointed in myself ..
Made a mistake, not in the spirit of the game..keep up the great work
Sorry again— Simon Zebo (@SimonZebo) October 20, 2018
As for the result, it leaves Ulster with one win and one loss after two games and still in the reckoning for a quarter-final spot.
