The incident saw referee Barrett-Theron produce a permanent red card
USA women’s star Alev Kelter is in line for a massive suspension after being sent off for stamping on the head of Australia centre Georgie Fredrichs on Saturday.
Kelter was shown a permanent red card in the 79th minute of the Wallaroos’ 27-19 win over the Americans in the second round of the Pacific Four tournament at the GIO Stadium in Canberra
After being on the receiving end of a tackle from Friedrichs, Kelter could be seen stamping her right foot down five times in a bid to get rid of the Australian defender, who was left hanging on her left leg.
On at least two occasions, she could be seen making contact with Friedrichs’ head, while two more stamps appeared to connect with the arms and upper body.
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Referee Aimee Barrett-Theron immediately blew up and, after reviewing the incident on the big screen, gave Kelter her marching orders.
“Twelve blue (Kelter) is going to get a permanent red card,” Barrett-Theron said at the time.
“Because this is thuggery, it is deliberate and it is very dangerous foul play. She’s clearly stamped on the head of the Australian player.
“That’s reckless, that’s dangerous and she’s going off.”
Commenting on the incident after the game, Wallaroos coach Jo Yapp said: “I have only seen it once – it’s not nice for the game.
“I have already had the USA apologise and check on “GFred” (Friedrichs). So we will wait and they (World Rugby) will review it.”
Kelter is now set to appear before a judicial panel, and is likely to face a sanction, which is likely to see her suspended for at least six matches.
However, there’s every chance the punishment could be more.
World Rugby guidelines state that foul play involving the head carries a “mid-range” sanction, which in the offence of stamping is six matches.
However, previous suspensions for head stamping offences in recent years suggest Kelter could be looking at a “high-range” punishment, which would see the punishment start at 12 matches.
