Joe Marler reportedly made derogatory remarks about an opponent's mother to spark the mass confrontation that marred the Harlequins v Bristol game.
Marler's remarks to Jake Heenan saw the Bristol flanker become visibly enraged and upset as he launched himself at the England prop during the Gallagher Premiership match. A brawl ensued, with Marler clearly looking sheepish after things had been broken up.
It had initially been unclear what Marler actually said to upset his opponent, but several reports now claim he made unsavoury comments about Heenan's mother, who is thought to be in hospital. In audio that has emerged from referee Karl Dickson's microphone, Heenan could be heard saying to the official: “Karl, Karl, my mum is in hospital.”
Marler could now face a lengthy ban if he is cited and was criticised by Bristol's captain after the game for over-stepping the mark.
Bristol skipper Steven Luatau insisted he would have reacted in the same way as Heenan, describing Marler's behaviour as "bulls**t" and demanding an apology. Marler later obliged, admitting his remarks were "p**s poor". You can read more about it here.
The Times also report Marler has apologised privately.
After the incident, referee Dickson told the players: “I know there was an allegation of what was said, I actually didn’t hear what was said but if it’s really clear on the comms after it will be dealt with.
“Unfortunately I can’t allow what happened straight after to occur, so it’s going to be a penalty against seven [Heenan] for what you did after. I didn’t hear what was said but if it’s offensive it will be picked up after and dealt with but I can’t do anything, as I didn’t hear it.”
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