Kane Thompson suspended from Samoan opener

Kane Thompson was sent off in Samoa's match against the Barbarians in London. Photo / Getty

Samoan lock Kane Thompson will miss the opening match of the World Cup against the United States after being suspended for two games.

Thompson was red carded by referee John Lacey for punching Aussie Saia Faingaa in Samoa's match against the Barbarians in London last week. Independent judicial officer Simon thomas of Wales deemed the foul play to be "low-end".

There were no mitigating circumstances as Thompson had been suspended for a striking incident late last year.

Thompson will also miss Samoa's final warm-up game against Wasps in Coventry this week.