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Lance Hohaia - Source: Photosport -
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Frenchman David Ferriol's one-match suspension after a forearm to the head of an opponent proves there are different rules for test matches, England rugby league enforcer Adrian Morley has claimed.
Ferriol will miss the Four Nations test against New Zealand at Toulouse on Sunday (NZT) after being banned for his attack on Englishman Kevin Sinfield last week.
However, French centre Jean Phillipe Baile is free to play against the Kiwis after being sent off for a high tackle on Richie Myler.
Those decisions have raised eyebrows in England, but Morley said he had no problem with either of them.
"I think in international rugby league they tend to be a bit more lenient and let a few things go," Morley told reporters.
"As players, you don't like to see other players suspended for long periods. So I've got no problems with that."
Prop Morley also admitted players went into tests expecting to get away with more than they would be allow to at club level.
Leniency impact
Asked whether the leniency had an impact on the field, Morley answered: "Possibly. Test matches, they're full-blooded affairs anyway.
"I think the players probably go into collisions harder and with a bit more intent.
"So I would say it has a slight effect, yeah."
The findings on Ferriol and Baile were reached between members of a new independent video review committee, comprising Ian Millaward and Paul Dixon.
Warrington's Morley said he was also mystified by Australia's refusal to play under French or New Zealand referees during the tournament.
"I couldn't understand it.
"They feel the quality of the refereeing in those two countries isn't great and indeed in the UK they want an Aussie ref and I couldn't understand that.
"It's the international panel who decide that but I feel English Super League refs are up to scratch and Steve (Ganson) will do a good job."
After refusing Leon Williamson and Thierry Alibert, the Australians were handed Ganson for a second consecutive week for their match against England this weekend.
Meanwhile, the Kiwis trained for the first time in France yesterday at Toulouse Olympique's Stade Des Minimes.
Bronson Harrison (calf) was extremely limited in his involvement while Greg Eastwood (hamstring) is improving steadily.
The Kiwis have changed an earlier plan to announce a team today and may release an extended squad, or nothing at all, a spokesman said.
