WATCH: Jonathan Danty sent off for illegal hit which nearly costs France victory against Italy
France's Jonathan Danty received his marching oders for a dangerous hit on Italy's Juan Ignacio Brex.
France inside centre Jonathan Danty’s participation in their Six Nations clash with Italy was cut short after he was sent off for a challenge on winger Corey Toole on Friday.
Danty’s indiscretion could result in a hefty suspension, with his tackle – during the Six Nations encounter – widely criticised as it changed the complexion of the match.
Just before half-time, Italy launched an attacking move with their backline and their outside centre Juan Ignacio Brex was in possession before offloading to Ross Vintcent, who took the ball into contact.
A split second after getting his pass away, Brex was tackled by Danty but the hit was a careless one as the Frenchman was upright throughout and there was a horrible clash of heads between the duo.
It was not surprising when referee Christophe Ridley issued a yellow card to Danty but that was later upgraded to red by the bunker review system, which meant Les Bleus would have to play the rest of the match with 14 men.
Danty a été expulsé. C’est le deuxième carton rouge pour le #XVdeFrance dans ce Tournoi des 6 Nations #FRAITA pic.twitter.com/O6iMc29PeF
— Clément Mazella (@ClementMazella) February 25, 2024
France were holding a 10-3 lead when the teams changed sides at half-time – courtesy of a converted try from their skipper, Charles Ollivon and a Thomas Ramos penalty – but the tables were well and truly turned after the break as Italy started to take control of the match.
Ramos and Paolo Garbisi traded penalties which meant France were holding a 13-6 lead midway through the half but Italy drew level when Ange Capuozzo scored a try in the 70th minute with Garbisi adding the extras.
That set up a tense finish and Italy had a chance to seal a historic win in the game’s dying moments when Garbisi lined up a penalty attempt but his shot at goal struck a post and the match ended in a dramatic 13-13 draw.
READ MORE: France player ratings: Dreadful Danty and dismal showings cost Les Bleus in stalemate with Italy
