The Melbourne Rebels have confirmed they will appeal the 10-week ban dished out to Adam Byrnes.
The Russia international was found guilty of gouging of "making contact with the eye" of Waratahs centre Tom Carter during the 35-19 defeat.
However the Rebels will fight the outcome of the SANZAR judicial hearing - and have dismissed accusations that Byrnes had "gouged" Carter.
A statement from the Melbourne-based club read: "The Rebels share Byrnes' disappointment with this finding and will fully support him throughout the appeal process.
"The club would also like to make it clear that despite media reports, there is no suggestion that Byrnes engaged in any "eye gouging".
"We believe that any contact made was absolutely accidental and without intent.
"The club has no further comment to make at this time."
Comments
jonesy2 says...
i just saw the footage on the news and he should most certainly appeal. it was more of a slap/picking carters nose than an eye gouge. as much as i dislike the rebels
Posted 13:43 06th March 2012
APV1 says...
Didn't he bite someone for having a go at his eyes a couple of years ago..?
Posted 15:15 05th March 2012