mens
United-rugby-championship
Munster have publicly backed Gavin Coombes after a disciplinary case involving Tadhg Furlong was dropped, while also seeking to comment on the incident.
The Leinster and Ireland Tighthead was cited after last weekend United Rugby Championship the inter-provincial clash over an alleged breach of Law 9.27, which covers acts contrary to the spirit of good sportsmanship, including grabbing, twisting or squeezing genitalia.
After a lengthy hearing on Thursday, an independent disciplinary panel unanimously ruled that the case against Furlong was not proven and dismissed the charge.
However, the panel also noted that Coombes had given a “fair account” of his recollection of the incident and that the citing complaint had been properly brought before the commission for adjudication.
Munster have now responded with a short statement making it clear that their support for the No 8 has not changed.
Interim chief executive Avan Lee said the club’s priority all week had been to stand behind Coombes and stressed that position remained unchanged following the ruling.
“The priority this week was to support Gavin and for the club to get behind him and that position has not changed,” Lee said.
“We believe it is important to allow independent disciplinary proceedings to be concluded without unhelpful comments from people who have a clear influence on public perception.
“Respect for that process and consideration for everyone directly involved should be paramount.”
Furlong is now free to continue playing for Leinster and Ireland with no sanctions after his appeal was dismissed.
A full written summary of the board’s decision is forthcoming, and the URC says it will be released as soon as reasonably practicable.
The ruling also leaves Furlong available for Ireland Nations Championship campaign, while Munster return to URC action in ninth place in the current table.
