Two men have been charged with assault after an alleged coward punch attack during a junior rugby sevens grand final on Sunday, in which a referee was knocked unconscious.
It’s alleged that after the under 14s game at Southwell Park in Lyneham, in Canberra’s north, an 18-year-old man from Fairfield, NSW, entered the field and assaulted one referee.
The man’s 42-year-old father, also from Fairfield, then allegedly “coward punched the second referee from behind” as he was helping the first referee, knocking him unconscious.
He was transported to hospital by paramedics.
Police say they spoke to witnesses who directed them to the 18-year-old man, who attempted to leave before being arrested and taken into custody.
Later that night, the father was arrested and taken to the watch house, where both he and his son were charged with assault.
They were granted bail and are scheduled to appear in court in November.
In a statement, Canberra club Uni-North Rugby Union Club condemned the incident.
“This incident does not reflect the values of our club or the game we all love,” the statement said.
“We are cooperating fully with ACT Rugby and relevant authorities to ensure this matter is handled appropriately, and we will review any involvement by our members or spectators to ensure accountability.
“Our thoughts are with the referees and volunteers involved, and we wish them a full and swift recovery from this unacceptable incident.”
ACT Policing are appealing for any witnesses with photos and footage related to the incident to come forward.