Mallinder expects ‘decent ban’ for Hartley following red card against Leinster

Northampton director of rugby Jim Mallinder is expecting a 'decent ban' for Dylan Hartley after his red card for a swinging arm to the back of Sean O’Brien’s head during 37-10 defeat against Leinster at Franklin's Gardens.

The England captain lasted just six minutes off the bench coming on as a second-half replacement for Mikey Haywood.

“It’s a strike to the head. We’ve seen enough of them over the last few weeks,” said Mallinder.

“I think it was a red card.”

"Dylan has been playing really well and leading England by example, so it was disappointing on returning from England and doing such a good job that that happens.

"I wouldn't say it cost us the game. I think we started badly, came back into the game pretty well and we had just conceded a try, actually, so we were already a few points down.

"But I think when you go down to 14 men against such a quality side as Leinster then you're always going to be up against it.

“I’m disappointed for the team. When you play a team like Leinster you want all your best players playing and you need fifteen players on the field.”