Saracens v Harlequins: Officials ignored foul play on Owen Farrell, says welfare group

The alleged foul play involved Harlequins captain Stephan Lewies who had already been shown a yellow card earlier in the game against Saracens

Match officials have been accused of a "dereliction of duty" in Saracens' emphatic win over Harlequins after apparent foul play was ignored when it was highlighted by a television pundit.

Former England scrum-half Austin Healey spotted a clear-out by Quins' Stephan Lewies while working for TNT Sports.

But the TMO was heard telling the referee he did not want to explore the matter because Healey had spotted it.

Lewies had already received a yellow card during the first half of the game.

The alleged clear-out in Saturday's game saw the Harlequins captain slide on his knees into Saracens skipper Owen Farrell.

Television match official Stuart Terheege told referee Christophe Ridley on a microphone during the broadcast: "The problem I have now is that it looks like Austin has instigated it because we're late, so I don't want to talk about it, OK?"

Prof John Fairclough, of player welfare group Progressive Rugby, said the matter was hugely concerning.

"Whatever the reason, it is clear a decision has been taken to ignore foul, reckless or dangerous play because of concern that it had been highlighted by a pundit," Prof Fairclough added.

"This is hugely concerning and a clear dereliction of a match official's duty to ensure player safety.

"An explanation should be sought as a matter of urgency."

A spokesperson for the Rugby Football Union said: "The RFU conducts regular reviews following all games that take place, as will be the case for Saracens v Harlequins."