England captain Phil Vickery could miss the vital Group A match against South Africa after being cited for kicking out at an opponent during the 28-10 World Cup win over the US at the weekend.
The 31-year-old tighthead prop was reported by match citing commissioner Steven Heines, England's Rugby Football Union said yesterday.
Vickery will face a disciplinary hearing, at a time to be set, and may not play for the reigning World Cup champion against South Africa in Paris on Friday.
PHOTO: AP
Vickery kicked out at outside center Paul Emerick in the 14th minute of Saturday's match in Lens after US flyhalf Mike Hercus took an intercept from lock Ben Kay and ran into the England quarter before offloading.
Emerick eluded one tackle before being tripped by Vickery, but referee Jonathan Kaplan took no action.
"It was unfortunate, he had made a good break," Vickery said after the game.
Emerick was himself cited for a dangerous tackle on England flyhalf Olly Barkley in the 80th minute. Emerick was sent to the sin bin for his spear tackle, but Heines decided it needed to be further reviewed.
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