BA Rugby Union has condemned two assaults on referees during last week’s finals, which led to match cancellations.
In a statement released by union secretary Gabby Kautoga, he said any physical or verbal assault on match referees or assistant referees by players, officials, or spectators will not be tolerated, and disciplinary action will be taken.
“In shield final Busa captain and number eight, Isimeli Burogo, punched match referee Tomasi Vale. The altercation followed a yellow card issued to Burogo after an argument over a penalty awarded to Yakete,” Kautoga said.
“In the second case, Navala fullback Romulo Laitia punched match referee Iliaseri Rokodrakia during the third place play-off. Laitia ran onto the field, disputing what he believed was an incorrect call for a forward pass in the match against Sorokoba.”
In both instances, police officers were called to the scene and escorted the offending players to the Ba Police Station.
The union emphasised zero tolerance for physical or verbal abuse of officials and will take disciplinary action.
