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Joe Johnston will sit out the next two games for the Free Jacks. The openside flanker was suspended after being cited post-game for a dangerous clear-out on Warriors center Tyler Fisher near the 10 minute mark of the home opener against Utah this past weekend.
As New England have a bye this week, he will miss the upcoming road games on April 17 against NOLA Gold and April 25 at Old Glory DC. Johnston will be free to play against the San Diego Legion on May 1.
It’s a blow for the Free Jacks with Johnston one of the form loose forwards in Major League Rugby at the moment. His role could be filled by Namibia international Wian Conradie, who has been playing at No8 but should shift with the timely arrival of Tera Mtembu from South Africa. The former Sharks captain should debut against the Gold.
Meanwhile the visa frustrations continue for two other signings. Xandré Vos and Jack Ram had their initial applications rejected. They have since been re-submitted but lengthy delays in the process are making it increasingly unlikely that the duo will be able to play for New England this season.
