RG Snyman avoids red in ‘disgraceful’ decision as Munster beat Ulster

Munster secured their place at the top of the URC table after overcoming Ulster 29-24 in their final round match on Saturday night.

The hosts needed a win at Thomond Park to secure a top-of-the-tree spot, thus earning the top seeds in the playoffs.

RG Snyman was among the try scorers for Graham Rowntree’s side but was lucky to still be on the field to do so.

Just eight minutes into the tie, the Springbok got into hot water for a collision with Ulster’s Will Addison.

The towering block caught the Ulsterman high as Addison had tried to run the ball inside his own five-yard box.

Replays then showed that Snyman’s shoulder had made full contact with Addison’s head. Even though there was no attempt to wrap his hands, no card was given at all, despite the incident appearing to merit a red.

Commenting on RTE, Donal Lenihan described the issue as at least a “minimum yellow card”.

On social media, the “disgraceful” call has more than a few critics online.

“Sorry but the decision to only put the pen against Snyman is a disgrace,” one fan wrote. A total shame. Dominant shot, shoulder to the head and a angled arm – surely a referee should be reprimanded for such a decision?

Despite the defeat, Ulster are also assured of their play-off spot and are set for a quarter-final clash with Leinster.