Last December, Luke Pearce went viral for marching back Billy Vunipola twice after he back-chatted the referee. Pearce's affirmation of respect won over the majority of the internet, however the referee has revealed he apologised for his actions to Vunipola.
First, let's go back to the incident. It's Exeter v Saracens in the Gallagher Premiership in December 2021 and Pearce penalises Sarries. Vunipola did not take kindly to the decision, firing some verbals the way of the official.
Pearce saw this as out of line, marching the visitors back 10 metres. However, Vunipola kept speaking his mind too, so the referee marched him back another 10 metres. It was quite a sight and became a real talking point with many observers praising the ref.
