USA's Emerick gets five-week ban

USA centre Paul Emerick has been banned for five weeks after being cited for a dangerous tackle on England's Olly Barkley in Saturday's World Cup match.

Emerick, who was seen to "spear" Barkley in the 28-10 loss to England, has 48 hours to appeal against the ban.

Disciplinary officials said there was a "deliberate tipping motion in the tackle with an element of force driving the opposing player downwards".

The offence carries a 10-week ban but mitigating factors were considered.

Emerick's good record, his good behaviour and that of his representatives from USA Rugby at the hearing, and the fact that he showed remorse in relation to the incident were all taken into account but his tournament is effectively over.

The USA Eagle is the player that Phil Vickery appeared to trip - leading to the England captain also being cited.

Vickery now faces a disciplinary hearing and could be banned for England's crunch Pool A game against South Africa in Paris on Friday.

The USA take on Tonga on 12 September, Samoa on 26 September and South Africa on 30 September.

Source: BBC Sport