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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Dylan James

Biggest rugby tackle of the season sees fuming Owen Farrell marched back by ref

London Irish back row So’otala Fa’aso’o has produced arguably the biggest hit of the season, before an outraged Owen Farrell was marched back 10 metres.

Fa’aso’o weighs in at a huge 20 stone and executed the completely legal but spine-shuddering hit on Saracens lock Hugh Tizard.

The officials saw nothing wrong with the tackle despite the chorus of gasps around the ground. The sound of the tackle was even picked up on the live TV broadcast.

The commentary team were in utter disbelief.

"Oh my goodness, heard that from here," said Nick Mullins.

"What a hit. It's a hit that was rewarded as well," said England legend Lawrence Dallaglio as Irish were awarded a penalty.

"Crikey, that was one of those government text alerts. That was an emergency warning, utterly issued. That was one we did hear, with or without your phones. What a hit that was!" exclaimed Mullins.

Despite the big hit, it was nothing but a consolation as Irish lost 45-21, with Sarries going through to the play-offs with Northampton Saints, Sale Sharks and Leicester Tigers.

You can watch the big hit below.

Farrell was not happy and protested to the referee about the tackle. Saracens were marched back 10 metres as a result after he claimed it was dangerous and similar to a previous incident that was punished.

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