Crusaders coach Scott Robertson had strong words for Highlanders' loose forward Liam Squire following his yellow card in last night's 38-14 Super Rugby quarter-final win.
In the early stages of the second half, and with the Crusaders holding a slender 17-14 lead, the Highlanders were rocked by Squire being shown a yellow card for a no-arms tackle on opposite number Whetukamokamo Douglas.
The Crusaders didn't need a second invitation with Squire off the field, scoring 14 points and never looking like surrendering their lead after that.
Speaking to media after his side's win, Robertson didn't hold back in his appraisal of Squire's tackle, and what it meant for the outcome of the match.
"It was a big moment," Robertson said.
"It's a shame - it's something in his game he needs to sort out. I'd hate to see someone get injured because of a shoulder charge like that.
"[Squire was] a bit late, I'm just glad everyone's healthy."
Last night's yellow card wasn't Squire's first offence, with a near identical incident seen in the same fixture two years ago, with Richie Mo'unga falling victim on that occasion.
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