In a recent Super Rugby Pacific match, Crusaders legend Justin Marshall expressed his frustration towards referee Angus Gardner after he allowed Chiefs lock Josh Lord to escape a yellow card despite a blatant foul on James O’Connor. O’Connor, playing for the Crusaders, was supporting David Havili as they approached the try-line when Lord tugged his jersey, effectively halting the attack. Marshall, commenting on the incident during the match coverage, insisted that the foul was a clear professional infringement deserving of a yellow card, stating, “You just can’t do it. That is a professional foul, yellow card, every day of the week.”
Although Gardner acknowledged the foul and awarded a penalty, Marshall disagreed, maintaining that Lord’s actions were significant enough to warrant further punishment. O’Connor successfully kicked the penalty, levelling the score at 17-17, but the Chiefs quickly regained dominance, ultimately winning the match 49-24. The Chiefs showcased their strength in the second half, scoring several tries with contributions from players like Quinn Tupaea, who scored twice. With this victory, the Chiefs remain undefeated in the season, while the Crusaders have one win and one loss.