AN amateur rugby match was abandoned following a mass brawl in front of shocked spectators.
The ruck was sparked when two opposing players were sent off for fighting.
An amateur rugby match was abandoned following a mass brawl in front of shocked spectators (stock photo)[/caption]
One, playing for Gravesend then allegedly punched opposition Reeds Weybridge’s coach, who is said to have hit him back — knocking the player out and breaking his jaw.
Other players and family and friends on the touchline then piled in on Saturday afternoon, witnesses said.
The Regional 2 South East match, in Hersham, Surrey, was abandoned and police called.
A witness said: “Throughout the game there were punches thrown and handbags.
“Then at the end of the game there were two red cards for fighting.
“Gravesend’s player walks off, punches the Reeds coach and he hit him back and it knocked him out.”
Officers arrested and later bailed a man aged 30 on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm.
A witness said: “What happened was a disgrace, especially with kids present.
“The book should be thrown at both clubs.”
A South East Coast Ambulance Service spokesman said: “We attended the scene following reports of a facial injury.
“One person was assessed and treated before being taken to St Peter’s Hospital in Chertsey.”
A joint statement from both teams read: “An unfortunate incident occurred towards the end of the game between Reeds Weybridge RFC and Gravesend RFC which saw a Gravesend player get injured.
“The incident was dealt with properly at the time by the referee and pitch-side medical support from both clubs.
“We would like to reassure our supporters that the player appears to be on the road to recovery and both clubs continue to support all those involved.
“The incident was subsequently reported to the relevant authorities.
“The management of both clubs have and continue to work closely together but we will not be making any further statements until all investigations have been completed.”
The Regional 2 South East match, in Hersham, Surrey, was abandoned and police called[/caption]
