The Western Province Rugby Football Union is set to take disciplinary action against its players implicated in the fight during an U19 match against Eastern Province in Port Elizabeth.
The visitors won the game 47-18, but the contest was marred by ugly scenes as both teams engaged in two full-on brawls.
The incident started when WP wing Christian Ambadiang took exception to being tackled by EP fullback Dylan le Roux. Video footage shows Ambadiang shoving Le Roux, who then retaliates with a punch. Members from both sides are seen rushing in to get involved in the altercation.
Once the match officials break up the fight, both Ambadiang and Le Roux are red-carded. But as they make their way off the field, tempers flare up again as Ambadiang races after Le Roux, slaps him against the head, pulls him back and then headbutts him. Le Roux then throws another punch and their teammates get involved again.
WP has condemned the incident and confirmed an investigation will be launched.
‘We’ll follow the correct procedures. As the match falls under the auspices of SA Rugby, there is a disciplinary process that WP and the player will follow. We take foul play and violent behaviour very seriously and an internal disciplinary process will also take place,’ a WP spokesperson told Netwerk24.
EPRFU president André Rademan described the incident as shocking and said they welcomed WP’s stance on the matter.
Photo: Getty Images
