ARU allow Ripia replacement

Western Force coach Richard Graham has welcomed the Australian Rugby Union's (ARU) decision to allow the club to find a replacement player following Willie Ripia's resignation on Tuesday.

Ripia resigned from the Force after allegedly being caught on CCTV stealing from his team-mates last week.

The flyhalf's departure could have caused serious issues for the Force, considering all club lists had to be submitted to the ARU by December 31 last year, but the governing body has granted the club special dispensation to find a replacement.

"We are pleased with the ARU's decision to allow us to recruit a replacement player under the circumstances and will look to fill that gap as soon as we can," Graham said.

"Obviously this has been a disappointing outcome for the squad but our main focus is moving forward and continuing our preparations for the 2012 season."

"(However) James Stannard proved more than capable in the No.10 jersey at the back end of the 2011 season and the playing group have a lot of confidence in his control and ability," the coach added.

"Ben Seymour and Kyle Godwin are continuing to develop in a competitive environment and will add competition and depth to that position."

It is believed Ripia will not be subjected to a police investigation as none of his former team-mates have made an official complaint.