Newcastle Red Bulls lock banned for key Challenge Cup clash

Hodgson was cited for striking or punching, in breach of World Rugby Law 9.12, following an incident in last Friday’s match against Gloucester Rugby. That game saw Newcastle Red Bulls secure their first Premiership victory since 2024, ending a 19-match losing run with a 25–19 triumph.

The Red Bulls led by 20 points with 20 minutes remaining but were forced to defend in the closing stages before celebrating a landmark league win — their first since the club’s takeover last August.

The disciplinary hearing was conducted by an independent panel chaired by Jeremy Summers, alongside Guy Lovgreen and Tony Wheat. Hodgson admitted the charge and was subsequently banned for one game.

Arthur Clark received a yellow card for his involvement in the off-the-ball incident that resulted in a Newcastle penalty, while Gloucester winger Ollie Thorley has been suspended following a 20-minute red card offence.

Newcastle sit second in their Challenge Cup pool with a perfect record of two wins from two matches, collecting eight points, while Top 14 strugglers Perpignan follow closely on five. The top four teams in each pool progress to the knockout stages.