Highlanders centre Jason Emery has been suspended from the Super Rugby competition for four weeks after pleading guilty to a dangerous tackle charge.
Emery was red carded after the ugly mid air collision with Sharks fullback Willie le Roux in the Highlanders 15‑14 loss to the Sharks while the South African fullback was jumping for the ball, which was the subject of a SANZAAR judicial hearing last night.
Le Roux landed on his neck and was tested for concussion before returning to the field later in the match.
Emery pleaded guilty to the charge which carries a six week suspension, but the judicial committee took into account Emery's clean record and his apology in person to le Roux after the match and reduced it to four weeks.
It means Emery misses the next crucial three games for the Highlanders against the Brumbies, Chiefs and Crusaders.
The Highlanders face the Brumbies at 5.15pm Saturday.
Source: RNZI and stuff.co.nz