Rugby League Central Coast: Five charged, banned after footy brawl, alleged racial abuse

Five people have now been charged and banned after an ugly brawl and alleged racial abuse broke out at a local footy game on the Central Coast.

Five people have been charged for their role in a brawl and alleged racial abuse. Picture: Sue Graham

New South Wales Rugby League has charged five people for their role in a brawl and alleged racial abuse that took place during a local rugby league game on the Central Coast last weekend.

The charges, enforced under NRL’s Code of Conduct policy, include offences such as exhibiting racial intolerance, contrary conduct, assault or aggressive behaviour, and the use of offensive language.

“The date for the hearings is yet to be determined, however those identified will not be allowed to participate in any form of rugby league activity and are not permitted to attend any ground at which our games are being played,” said Rugby League Central Coast chairman Nathan Waugh in a statement.

The announcement follows a series of ugly events that occurred during and after Woy Woy’s home game with Wyong at Woy Woy Oval last Sunday June 9.

During the first grade game it is alleged that a Woy Woy Roosters player was racially abused by a member of the crowd.

The incident occurred during Woy Woy’s round eight clash with Wyong. Picture: Sue Graham

A fight also broke out between players on the field towards the end of the match while another altercation involving some Roosters players and crowd members is believed to have taken place in the grandstand after the full-time whistle.

In addition, footage captured on a mobile phone shows a separate brawl spilling out of the gates and in front of Woy Woy Oval after the match. Some Woy Woy players can be seen in the vicinity of the melee, with some trying to break up the fight.

It is understood that the brawl outside the ground was triggered by racial insults.

The fresh charges come after the Rugby League Central Coast board made the extraordinary decision earlier in the week to ban spectators from the Roosters’ upcoming home game with the Terrigal Sharks, set to take place at Woy Woy Oval this Sunday.

The temporary ban will remain in place for the game, with RLCC set to continue its investigation.

“The Rugby League Central Coast board continues to monitor the situation and is exploring all available options to ensure that rugby league games on the Central Coast remain a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants and spectators alike,” said Waugh.