Erc Press Release: Attoub Banned

The citing was for alleged grabbing of an opponent's face and alleged gouging during the European Challenge Cup Round 2 First Leg match on Sunday, 5 December.

The independent Disciplinary Committee found the player guilty of an act contrary to good sportsmanship as per Law 10.4 K. The committee, in reaching its decision, found that the player had not acted deliberately, but had been reckless.

The independent committee imposed a ban of six weeks suspension with immediate effect (expire 28/01/05 ) and a further 12-months suspension, was suspended for two years.

In addition the player was fined E5,000 and ordered to pay the costs of the hearing.

The independent Disciplinary Committee appointed by Professor Lorne Crerar, the Discipline Panel Chairman for ERC matches, comprised of Jonathan Dance, Chairman (RFU), Mike Hamlin (RFU) and Geraint Edwards (WRU).

NOTES:
a) A citing complaint must be made, in writing, and received by the independent Citing Officer within 50 hours of the start of the match
b) There is a panel of independent Citing Officers who could be used during the season. The Citing Officers are suitably trained and experienced in rugby disciplinary matters. The decision of the Citing Officer is final
c) The independent Disciplinary Committee is chosen by the Chairman of Discipline, Professor Lorne Crerar
d) The independent Disciplinary Committee normally consists of a legal expert (Chairman), an eminent rugby administrator and former player
e) No member of the independent Disciplinary Committee may be chosen from acountry whose club is a party to the complaint
f) The ERC Disciplinary Officer, Roger O'Connor, presents the case against any cited player and not the opposing club as in previous seasons