It\u2019s alleged committee members abused the referee and opposing team\u2019s spectators because the match ran overtime on Saturday morning.<\/p>\n
Spectators from Papakura and Manurewa say the match at Prince Edward Park was stopped by one of Papakura\u2019s committee members before it was finished.<\/p>\n
Another Papakura committee member then stormed onto the field to allegedly tell the referee to \u201cget the f*** off the field\u201d in front of the young players. <\/p>\n
Another committee member reportedly yelled at both teams over the ground\u2019s loudspeaker.<\/p>\n
The Herald has seen letters of complaint that include allegations of intimidation by the Papakura committee towards spectators. <\/p>\n
One letter, from a mother who couldn\u2019t attend the match, says her son came home to tell her all about it: \u201cI had a really cool game today, Mum. I had fun but our game was cut short by a lady from the Papakura team who told Coach Damien to \u2018get the eff off the field\u2019.\u201d <\/p>\n
Another asks Auckland Rugby League to investigate and advise what actions will be taken to address the behaviour and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.<\/p>\n
A letter from Kura Saints U9’s manager Leroy Roberts apologising for the behaviour of Papakura Rugby League club committee members. Photo \/ Supplied<\/p>\n
The outburst was sparked by the match running overtime with another game due to start. <\/p>\n
The manager of Kura Saints, Leroy Roberts, said the matches are tightly scheduled, allowing little time for any stoppages. Once one match goes beyond the scheduled finish, the next match is impacted. <\/p>\n
It\u2019s understood that some parents retaliated, incensed by the language and behaviour of the Papakura committee members. But the situation was ultimately de-escalated by both teams\u2019 management and their supporters. <\/p>\n
Roberts issued an apology to the players and families of the Manurewa Marlins before taking aim at his own club\u2019s committee. <\/p>\n
\u201cWe do NOT condone any of their actions and in no way does it reflect the morals and values of the Saints,\u201d Roberts\u2019 letter says. <\/p>\n
\u201cThe swearing in front of the children, the aggressive behaviour, the stomping around calling off the game when we had three minutes left, the name calling all in front of the kids is disgusting. <\/p>\n
\u201cWe again apologise for subjecting your children and supporters to such ugly behaviour from those who are supposed to be running our club.\u201d <\/p>\n
Online comments show support for Roberts from both his Kura Saints team and the visiting Manurewa Marlins. <\/p>\n
\u201cThank you for the best hospitality and a brilliant game that was showcased for all our families and supporters. We wish you all the best for the rest of the season from us Allstars.\u201d<\/p>\n
Papakura Rugby League Club has been approached for comment.<\/p>\n