RUGBY UNION: Steele shows no Merci on Junior; GLOUCESTER 22

NORTHAMPTON rugby director John Steele blasted Gloucester's try- scoring forward Junior Paramore last night following his team's Premiership defeat at Kingsholm.

Steele was incensed by a 73rd-minute high tackle by Paramore on Northampton's former All Black Andrew Blowers, which only earned him a yellow card from referee Tony Spreadbury after discussions with a touch judge.

"Junior Paramore sets himself up as an ambassador for the game, but his behaviour is disgraceful. We saw refusing to rule out further action.

The game was dominated by goal-kickers Ludovic Mercier and Paul Grayson. Gloucester fly-half Mercier, on debut, kicked 17 points while Grayson slotted three first-half penalties, but Paramore's try before the break proved crucial.

The victory completed a difficult week for Gloucester which started with assistant coach Andy Keast leaving the club.

SCORERS - Gloucester: Try, Paramore. Cons, Mercier; Pens, Mercier 5. Northampton: Pens, Grayson 3.

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