NSW: Under 14s rugby ref punched in face by specator

AAP General News (Australia)
08-07-2004
NSW: Under 14s rugby ref punched in face by specator

SYDNEY, Aug 7 AAP - Emotions boiled over at an under 14s rugby match in Sydney's outskirts
today when a spectator punched a 22-year-old referee in the face.

Windsor police were called to an oval in North Richmond about 11.50am (AEST) today
after reports the referee was attacked by a spectator.

Police were told the referee was verbally abused by spectators at the Beaumont Road game.

The referee suffered minor facial injuries and was treated at the scene.

The identity of the attacker and the attacker's relationship with the players was not revealed.

Greater Metropolitan Region Commander Assistant Commissioner Denis Clifford said junior
sporting matches were not the place for aggression.

"We are urging people not to lose their temper at junior sporting events such as this,"

Mr Clifford said.

"Any kind of intimidation of sporting officials is unacceptable at junior sporting
matches and also sets a bad example for the young people playing the game."

Mr Clifford said it was fine for people to go along and support their team, but there
was no place in any sport for intimidation or assault of officials or other spectators.

Police spoke to several witnesses and inquiries into the matter were continuing.

AAP bk/rgr/de

KEYWORD: REFEREE

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