West Wallsend RLFC terminated from comp, players stood down, after sideline brawl at Dora Creek
It was confronting footage of a large brawl on the sidelines of a rugby league match in the Hunter as families and children watched on. It may have been sparked by racial slurs made against players.
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The NSW Rugby League (NSWRL) has immediately stood down five West Wallsend players from any involvement in rugby league and terminated the team from the Newcastle and Hunter Community Football competition for the season following a vicious sideline brawl over the weekend.
The confronting footage of the fight — shared across social media — depicts both players and spectators involved in the violent incident on the final whistle of a match between Dora Creek and West Wallsend rugby league clubs at Dora Creek Workers Club Oval on Saturday afternoon.
Shockingly, it shows a player in a black jersey punching spectators as families and children watch on.
The Newcastle News has been told there had been some racial slurs made against West Wallsend players by Dora Creek supporters.
A club member also said “its is certainly not what West Wallsend Rugby League Club condones from its players, staff or spectators”.
It was also confirmed one of the players involved was on parole and the club had decided to give him a “second chance”.
It’s believed one person had to be hospitalised with a fractured nose and eye socket following the incident.
The NSWRL has also issued breach notice to Dora Creek RLFC for failing to comply with the COVID-19 Safety Plan; and for failing to control their supporters.
The club will not be permitted to host any more games in 2020, with the pending semi-final, to be hosted by Dora Creek, to be transferred to a neutral venue.
NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden said: “We have zero tolerance for behaviour that threatens the safety of participants, officials and spectators and those found guilty face lengthy bans.
“Everyone involved in community football should be able to expect to play and/or attend and enjoy community sport without any concerns or fears.
“This incident is completely contrary to the standards of any community sport and we have a duty to eradicate this sort of behaviour from our game.”
The NSWRL has also commenced a further investigation and report on any underlying issues in the area that may have contributed to the incident.
Lake Macquarie Police are also conducting further inquiries but appealing for anyone with information on the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.