Judicial findings - Joe Wheeler and Joss Tua-Davidson

Tasman lock Joe Wheeler has been found guilty of stamping on an opponent, after appearing at a New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) judicial hearing today.

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Wheeler was cited for allegedly stamping on Otago’s Alando Soakai in their Air New Zealand Cup match at Carisbrook on Saturday 17 October.

Wheeler appeared before NZRU Judicial Officer Peter Hobbs and was supported by Kieran Keane co-coach of Tasman.

Having considered all the evidence, including DVD footage and hearing from the player, Mr Hobbs decided in the circumstances of this case that being found guilty of the offence was sufficient penalty and no period of suspension was imposed.

Meanwhile, Wairarapa Bush flanker Joss Tua-Davidson also appeared before Mr Hobbs after receiving a red card for allegedly stamping on a Mid Canterbury player’s head in their Heartland Championship match in Masterton on Saturday 17 October.

Tua-Davidson was supported by Wairarapa Bush Team Manager Brian Abbot.

Tua-Davidson denied the allegation of stamping and after reviewing all the evidence, including DVD footage and hearing from the player and assistant referee, Mr Hobbs was not satisfied that the allegation had been proved.

Under NZRU rules, any player who receives a red card faces an automatic judicial hearing.