Saracens suffer blow in hunt for top spot in Championship

Saracens have been dealt a setback in their push for a return to the Premiership following a Championship Disputes Committee’s decision on Monday.

Mark McCall’s men had their Round 11 fixture against Hartpury University RFC postponed over the weekend after a small number of Hartpury players tested positive for COVID-19.

That led to Hartpury needing to isolate several more players in accordance with the contact tracing protocols, resulting in the game being called off.

However, the Greene King IPA Championship Disputes Committee has now settled on the next steps of the postponement, which sees no points given to either team and means Saracens are trailing in their top spot battle with pace-setters Ealing.

“The Committee considered the specific facts of this particular case, relevant regulations and supporting documentation and concluded that the match should be cancelled. The Committee concluded that the match should be considered as a 0–0 draw, with no league points awarded to either team,” read a statement.

Not at fault

“In light of the facts, the Committee considered Hartpury University RFC were not at fault for the cancellation of the fixture and noted that the only reserve weekend available for the Championship is 5th – 6th June.

“Hartpury University RFC confirmed they were not able to play that weekend as players still isolating under COVID-19 protocols and some injuries mean the club is unable to field a squad.

“While the positions of the clubs in the league table was not considered to be a relevant factor in determining the outcome of the cancellation, it was noted that the effect of the decision would not undermine the integrity of the competition.”

Saracens and Hartpury do have the right to appeal, with the former saying they will consider their options and have until June 11 to make a decision.