Bracken defends Grewcock

By Jason Harris
September 8 2002

Saracens captain Kyran Bracken has come to the defence of Bath skipper Danny Grewcock after his sending off at Vicarage Road on Sunday.

The England scrum half said after former Saracen Grewcock was dismissed by referee Steve Leyshon that he feld that the kick he received to his face was accidental.

Bracken explained: "What happened was that the ball went to the base of the scrum. I tagged the number eight and the scrum went over the top of me. Danny and I were in a pretty awkward position. We were both kicking out to try and get out of the way. "

"Basically I think his boot connected with my face. I just hope all he gets is a red card and he can be back playing soon."

"I have spoken to Danny about it and he says he didn't mean to kick me. To be honest, when the whole pack falls on you, you can't stay in one position."

"Both of us were pretty worried and I am positive it was an accident. So I would be fully prepared to be a witness for him at a disciplinary hearing."

Grewcock could be banned for up to 84 days by the RFU disciplinary committee and will hope that his England colleague putting in a good word for him will reduce or remove completely a suspension from the game.