Rugby Union: Jonno a victim of hysteria

MARTIN JOHNSON walked into his disciplinary hearing fearing the worst.

And, as someone used to being a target on the field, Jonno had to take his three-week hammer blow right on the chin.

The RFU panel clearly sensed the chance to give an England captain a bloody nose - and they didn't pull any punches.

But I am left asking, why was Jonno on the carpet in the first place? Why was a guy who has led his country so proudly and so well forced to attend such a hearing?

Yes, he punched Robbie Russell. He was out of order. But there are 100 punch-ups in rugby each season. Referees punish offenders - the ones they spot - and that's the end of the matter.

Had it been Joe Bloggs punching Russell, a blind eye would have been turned. All the hysteria which virtually hanged Jonno before the trial would never had blown up.

The panel set a dangerous precedent. Let's see what happens to Joe Bloggs when he is involved in a similar incident. I bet he doesn't get a three-week ban and demands for him to be put behind bars!

It makes my blood boil. There should never be one rule for one guy and another for someone else. Sadly, there are too many people in high places trying to undermine the England team and its captain.

Now he's appealed and we wait to see whether he will play against France.

I know Clive Woodward has gone on record to say we can beat France without Jonno but I for one would rather have him lining up alongside me.

Copyright 2002 MGN LTD
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved.