Teen handcuffed after footy field sprint during Mackay NRL match at BB Print Stadium

A Mackay teen could “could have” jeopardised the entire NRL after he breached stringent Covid rules by legging it across the stadium field during halftime at the Roosters v Eels clash.

A Mackay teen could “could have” jeopardised the entire NRL after he breached stringent Covid rules by legging it across the stadium field during halftime at the Roosters v Eels clash.

The 14 year old did not see Sydney smash Parramatta 28-0 in the region’s first NRL match in eight years, played before a sell-out crowd totalling almost 5000 at BB Print Stadium.

MECC and Events manager Andrew Bobeldyk described the incident during Thursday night’s match as extremely serious.

As footy fans waited during half-time a growing cheer could be heard as the teen sprinted across the grounds with at least three security guards trying to catch him.

By the end watchers were egging on his efforts as he neared the Bridge Road end of the field where the guards grabbed him and police placed him in handcuffs.

“By breaching the Covid protocols, he could have put the entire NRL in jeopardy,” Mr Bobeldyk said.

“But because he was a juvenile, we don’t have his details, so are unable to ban him from the stadium.”

The teen was then escorted from the stadium.

MACKAY, AUSTRALIA – JULY 29: Oregon Kaufusi of the Eels is tackled during the round 20 NRL match between the Sydney Roosters and the Parramatta Eels at BB Print Stadium, on July 29, 2021, in Mackay, Australia. (Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images)

A Queensland Police spokesman confirmed it was a 14 year old boy.

“He’s had no issues criminally with police,” the spokesman said.

As a result the teen was cautioned by police and not charged.

Mr Bobeldyk said the rest of the crowd was extremely well behaved.

“The crowd of 4926 was a sell-out under the COVID restrictions,’’ he said.

“It was great to have a regular season NRL game back in Mackay for the first time since 2013.

“The television coverage included a virtual logo on the halfway line promoting Mackay and we also ran Hooked On Mackay television commercials throughout regional Queensland during the game.”

Mr Bobeldyk said council had struck a two-game deal with the NRL, so fans could expect another game in Mackay.

“We’re just waiting on confirmation of the teams and date,’’ he said.