Reds still considering Cooper appeal

The Reds may yet fight for the overturning of star playmaker Quade Cooper’s suspension for Saturday’s play-off against the Sharks.

Cooper will watch from the stands after what was deemed to be a dangerous high tackle on Berrick Barnes earned him a one-game ban. However, Queensland Rugby (QRU) said it is ‘seriously considering’ lodging an appeal.

Ex Keo

QRU Chairman Rod McCall, CEO Jim Carmichael and their legal representatives are handling the matter, with the team and coaching staff instructed to focus on preparations.

McCall and Carmichael believe QRU presented a strong case the tackle did not warrant a suspension. ‘We are obviously particularly sensitive to not disrupting the Reds team dynamics and preparation in launching an appeal at this late stage, however by not receiving the formal judgement until 8pm Tuesday after the decision was handed down on Monday evening, time is getting away from us in what was already a short preparation,’ McCall said.

‘Under the current Sanzar protocols, if we were to launch an appeal we would lose at least a further day of preparation with Ewen [McKenzie] and Quade who would both be required to fly to Sydney for another hearing. However, we are cognisant of the need to support our player if we feel he has been treated harshly and in our opinion we still strongly believe the tackle did not warrant suspension.

‘After taking the advice of legal representatives, the QRU first intends to discuss the matter further with Sanzar before making a decision whether to launch an appeal within the allowed 48-hour period.’

Missed the match so how bad was the tackle? Trust the Ozzies are not trying to overturn a fair decision.

 

The tackle wasnt the best... as an ardent Reds fan I can admit this. 

Barnes was stepping off his right foot and was leaning down at the time.

QC came in to make dominant tackle (which is ironic in itself) and connected pretty high - shoulder then slid up to neck region.

At the time I personally thought he's gone for next week at least.... HOWEVER -

I also watched the chiefs play the hurricanes and in that game the treacherous kiwi glamour boy SBW put  a massively high shot on Cory Jane.... guest what..... NOTHING - not even a penalty.

Now if SANZAR have clearly decided that QC should be accountable so should any tackle that is of this nature.

It is the inconsistency that is in question here - so I would suggest that this is the angle that Reds mgt have adopted.

Also dont forget by keeping this is the headlines its messing with the Shawwks as to whether or not to prepare tactically for a QC or QCless backline.......................................

thats my take....

the sharks are professionals so they wont mind if QC is playing or not. plums is not a smuck so if QC then so be it if not who cares. reds are still a great team with or without QC. the sharks will come to play there pattern