Burgess's hit was high and derserved punishment, there is no argument. Personally I think 10 in the bin would have been the best option but hey this is RL and it seldom makes sense when men in suits are involved.
Was there intent, I don't think so, but so what? Most high tackles are unintentional but thats doesn't make it ok does it?
I think the discipline of the Kiwi's was pretty superb considering the provocation, how many times in the past would we have seen a Kidwell, Betham or the like start a brawl (great stuff lol). Maybe the kiwi's need that though they did seem to lack agression at times with only Jeremy Smith really hammering people in the tackle. The Kiwi's win more matches by beating up their opponents with no fear running and brutal gang tackles usually started by a bit of fisticuffs, lets bring it on.
Whats the bet if a Kiwi throws a well deserved punch that all of a sudden the suspensions start getting handed out. The pommie heirachy know they haven't won a series in years and will do all they can to ensure they finally get one against this understrength Kiwi side. It might be their last for another decade or 2 looking at the young talent coming through.
As for the Superleague being more physical then the NRL I would doubt that. The fitness and strength of the players down under is definately superior to the soft poms and the old age pensioners sent there to increase their bank accounts. Of course the ex-pats won't say that in an interview! Would you go out and bag the people who pay your wages to the world and expect to get a pay rise?????
The Kiwi's need an enforcer! Come on down Mr Pritchard just pretend you're at your brothers place in Sydney, these guys don't have knives!