Galarza ban upheld

London - Argentina lock Mariano Galarza has lost his appeal against a nine-week ban for gouging New Zealand's Brodie Retallick at Wembley last weekend.

The appeal committee of Lorne Crerar of Scotland, Graeme Mew of Canada, and Robbie Deans of New Zealand upheld the midweek decision of the judicial officer.

Galarza was suspended for Argentina's three remaining pool games at the World Cup, which count as a week each, and for his Gloucester club until November 26.