Louis Rees-Zammit sin-binned for fighting after scoring try against old team

Louis Rees-Zammit's return to rugby union was a dramatic affair as he scored a try, got involved in a brawl and was sin-binned against his former club Gloucester. The Welsh winger played a pivotal role in the PREM Cup match at Kingsholm, where his Bristol Bears team put on an impressive display against their local rivals. Rees-Zammit crossed for a try just 22 minutes into the game and saw plenty of action as he continued his rugby comeback after spending 18 months in the NFL.

However, the match wasn't without its controversies, as he was sin-binned towards the end of the first half for a tussle with fellow Welshman Caio Jones, with the two players exchanging heated words and shoves as they left the pitch. In addition to scoring a try, Rees-Zammit also missed one opportunity when he seemed to be clear following a signature chip and chase before fumbling the ball 10 metres from the goal line.

The 24-year-old ex-Gloucester player became a target for the home crowd, who took delight in taunting him as tensions escalated in the first 40 minutes.

Earlier, Rees-Zammit had demonstrated his threat, collecting a neat offload from Toby Baker to put him into space and speed past Jake Morris on the outside. He tossed the ball into the air in celebration as the home crowd booed.

Despite the drama, it all concluded respectfully, as the home fans applauded their former star when he was substituted by Max Pepper after 56 minutes.

The Gallagher PREM season is set to commence next weekend, with Bristol's new star signing appearing ready for action after weeks of improving his match fitness and shedding weight following his stint in America.

He is eager to restart his international career, with Steve Tandy likely to include him in the autumn squad for matches against Argentina, Japan, South Africa and New Zealand.

"I think you wouldn't rule anything out," Tandy commented when questioned about Rees-Zammit's inclusion in his autumn squad. "Zammo brings a big effect and excitement by coming back. I think it's great for the game.

"He's gone away to experience something new, which is class. I'm sure he will be in outstanding physical condition. The more players we have available to represent our country the better. That's exciting and makes our jobs easier.

"It will also make our calls on selection a lot more challenging in terms of selection as we've already got some very good back-three players. Adding Zammo into that makes it even more exciting for not only us, but the fans as well."