FNQ Rugby grand final rematch under review, called off early
FNQ Rugby has launched an investigation and is taking the matter “extremely seriously” after simmering tensions led to a brawl which prematurely ended a much-anticipated grand final replay.
Sport
Don't miss out on the headlines from Sport. Followed categories will be added to My News.
FNQ Rugby is investigating the circumstances that led to Saturday’s grand final rematch being called off midway through the second half at James Cook University.
The Round 5 clash between defending premiers JCU Mariners and 2019 runners-up Barron Trinity Bulls was a fiery encounter from the first whistle – as was to be expected in what was the first meeting between the two sides since last year’s decider.
Both teams played hard but fair for most of the contest, but after threatening to flare up all afternoon, tensions eventually boiled over late in the second half.
The alleged match-ending incident occurred when Mariners Myles Hardy and Bull Kris Verevis-Brim became involved in some push and shove, which escalated into a melee involving players from both sides.
MORE RUGBY UNION NEWS:
NRL superstar considers bombshell switch
Rugby State of Union series could rival Origin
Gritty Reds too tough for Rebels
Paisami back for date with Brumbies
The referee had already issued three yellow and two red cards prior to the incident, and made the decision to call the match off early, with Mariners leading 10-5.
Barron Trinity Bulls coach Wayne Meredith said the club met to discuss the incident on Monday, before addressing the playing group last night.
“We’re reviewing a few things in our club,” he said.
“We’ll have a chat with the players to review a few things within the playing group.
“As far as what happened on the weekend, I don’t want to play the blame game or anything like that, I think we just need to sort out what’s happened and move forward.
“I’ve reached out to the coach of JCU just to try and see what we can do as men to resolve it and make sure it doesn’t happen again.
“We’ve got to meet each other again this season and hopefully we meet each other again in the finals.”
Meredith said there were no hard feelings between the two clubs immediately after the game was called off, with players shaking hands and forming a guard of honour for the opposition.
FNQ Rugby president John Pirie said the association would take its time to investigate the incident in order to make the best decision.
“FNQ Rugby treats these on-field infractions extremely seriously,” he said.
“An investigation is currently under way.”
Pirie was concerned the incident presented a false image of the sport.
“We have worked extremely hard to create a competition which is exciting and inclusive,” he said.
“We have a strong senior competition, fantastic juniors and an exciting women’s competition under way.
“As a code, we will continue to provide players and spectators with a safe and enjoyable environment in which they can play and watch rugby each weekend.”
Mariners coach Josh Flaherty could not be reached for comment on Tuesday.
Originally published as FNQ Rugby grand final rematch under review, called off early