Six Nations

Ireland’s loss today was decided by referee Wayne Barnes' late decision against Stephen Ferris. But was it even a penalty?

Ireland lost 23-21 today to Wales but the game will be remembered for two penalties. The first, against Wales, saw Bradley Davies being very fortunate to only get yellow after he tipped Donnacha Ryan onto his head. Luckily the Munster man escaped unhurt.

The second, with just seconds to go in the game, saw Ulster’s Stephen Ferris get the same punishment for what looks to us like a much, much less serious offence. That it resulted in the game winning kick for Wales made it all the more cruel on Ireland

Wales deserved to win the game but these tackles look to be world’s apart in severity and danger. Was Ferris’ even a penalty? Or should the Irish man know better than to lift a player even a little in the tackle?

Have a look above and judge for yourself.