RFU decide against action after biting claim in Saints’ derby defeat

CLAIM - Tom Youngs said he had been bitten by a Saints player during Saturday's game at Franklin's Gardens (Picture: Linda Dawson)

The Rugby Football Union confirmed on Sunday that citing officer Wade Dooley reviewed the match footage and opted against taking any action.

Youngs appeared to suggest Saints skipper Dylan Hartley was responsible for the alleged bite and director of rugby Jim Mallinder later stated he would speak to the player.

But a lack of evidence to support Youngs’ claim and the absence of any complaint from Leicester have led to Dooley’s decision.

“The incident has been reviewed and no action will be taken against Dylan Hartley,” an RFU spokesperson said.

Referee Wayne Barnes referred the 15th-minute incident to television match official Trevor Fisher after hearing an unnamed player’s allegation on the pitch.

Leicester boss Richard Cockerill confirmed Youngs’ claim that he had been bitten but stopped short of identifying a culprit.

“Tom said that he was bitten on the hand by someone he didn’t elaborate on,” Cockerill said.

“The referee referred it to the TMO, and looked at it and there was clearly nothing to look at. Maybe Tom was mistaken. It will be looked at by the relevant people.”

It was unclear on Saturday whether Mallinder intended speaking to Hartley because of his role as club captain or because he was under any suspicion.

“I don’t think there was anything in it. I would be very surprised,” Mallinder said.