Lassissi cited for biting ‘the Claw’

Munster have cited Castres Number 8 Ismaela Lassissi for biting. The forward is alleged to have bitten Munster prop Peter Clohessy, known as ‘the Claw’ during Saturday’s European Cup match in France.

In a statement released this afternoon, the Munster branch confirmed "we have decided to cite the Castres No. 8 Ismaela Lassissi for an incident that took place during the game."

The necessary documentation has now been lodged with European Rugby Cup Ltd who must now deal with the matter.

The culprit went unpunished during the match itself when match referee Tony Spreadbury told Munster players he was unable to identify the player responsible.

Spreadbury acknowledged a biting offence had been committed, drawing attention to the gruesome bite mark on Clohessy’s forearm, but was forced to concede he did not have a clear view of the incident.

Munster officials spent much of yesterday reviewing French television pictures of the incident, which were initially thought to be inconclusive, and now clearly feel Lassissi can be identified.

The next step is for the European Rugby Cup to appoint a disciplinary committee for a hearing, presumably before Castres’ quarter-final against Montferrand on January 26th.

If found guilty, Lassissi can expect a lengthy ban. Under ERC guidelines, the penalty for biting an opponent is a ban lasting anywhere between 12 and 36 months.