Rugby Union Today: Loose Pass and Farrell reaction

David Skippers

Owen Farrell of Saracens playing his 200th game during Gallagher Premiership Rugby between Saracens and Harlequins at Allianz Park stadium, Hendonon, UK on 22nd August, 2020 (Photo by Action Foto Sport/NurPhoto)

Another busy day in the rugby union game as Loose Pass returned to Planet Rugby to provide its unique take on several topics in the sport.

What’s on the site

Owen Farrell’s red card is unsurprisingly the big talking point for Loose Pass this week, while the column also discusses the return of the Top 14 and the current issues facing Argentinian rugby.

Features writer James While delves into the Farrell debate as well, defending the England and Saracens fly-half from those who claim he is a serial offender when it comes to high or dangerous tackles.

Elsewhere, the Premiership continues on Wednesday with five matches and we have previewed all the contests as title challengers Exeter, Sale, Wasps and Bath look to boost their top-four prospects.

What’s in the news

Bristol will be without centre Siale Piutau for the next three matches after he was suspended for punching Worcester’s Andrew Kitchener in their game on Friday. The Warriors second-row has also been banned for his part in the 79th minute incident.

Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Braydon Ennor will be out for nine months after sustaining a serious knee injury during the North v South encounter at the weekend. Scans confirmed that Ennor ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament and will probably have to undergo surgery.

What’s on social media

Joe Marler has been an outspoken critic of the Premiership’s decision to cram the rest of the 2019/20 season into a short space of time and he continues to stir the debate.

What’s on TV

We’re back to some midweek Premiership action and it kicks off on Tuesday before more games are televised on BT Sport on Wednesday. Super Rugby AU has reached its knockout stage on Sky Sports as the Reds face the Rebels for a place in the final and there’s also Mitre 10 Cup action to enjoy. Finally, the big one on Saturday sees Leinster and Ulster fight it out for PRO14 glory on Premier Sports.