Saints junior rugby union player taken to hospital after being knocked out during grand final
The Territory’s rugby union peak body has defended its decision to move a season decider to another ground after a player was knocked out.
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A junior rugby union grand final was halted and then moved to an adjoining ground after a player was knocked out.
The Under 16 boys Northern Territory Rugby Union decider on March 25 between Casuarina Cougars and MacKillop Saints was stopped after a Saints player remained grounded after a tackle, about 10 to 15 minutes into the second half.
A supporter, who wished to remain anonymous, said a canopy was erected to shade the player at Rugby Park’s Field 1 as he was attended to.
The supporter said the match was moved to an adjoining ground following a discussion between the two coaches and an official.
An ambulance reportedly arrived about 40 to 50 minutes later.
The league defended the decision to move the game following concerns from the spectator it should have been abandoned.
NT Rugby chief executive Nathan McDonald said the league “prioritises player wellbeing above all else”.
“I have followed up with the player’s club directly and am aware he has been discharged and is recovering well,” McDonald said.
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