Satala Discplinary Hearing Outcome Announced

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Taunton’s Fijian international Apo Satala was the subject of a disciplinary hearing held in Bristol tonight.

The back row forward had been dismissed with a straight red card for striking an opponent in Taunton's National 2 South league match against Dings Crusaders on 11th December at Hyde Park.

After considering evidence submitted by the match referee and match video, the presiding disciplinary panel elected to hand Satala a two week ban, which was reduced to one week.

It is understood that the open and honest nature of Satala’s guilty plea, his exemplary disciplinary history, and strong character references from Gloucester RFC’s Brian Redpath and British Army representatives all helped contribute to a reduced ban period.

Taunton Director of Rugby Lee Waddon was positive about the outcome, saying: “Apo was very honest and apologetic about the incident that occurred during the Ding’s game. It was clear that what happened was a ‘one off’ and in no way representative of his usual character.

“Thankfully, this now means that Apo will only miss the Ealing game on 15th January.”