rugbybrawl02

(EDS: SLUG CHANGED FROM RUGBY CHARGES)

July 2 - Two men will appear in court tomorrow after a brawl over a refereeing decision at an under-11s rugby game in Wellington.

Senior Sergeant Derek Chapman said officers were called to a brawl at Porirua Park at 10.50am on Saturday.

"A coach and a referee got involved in some sort of fight or brawl," Mr Chapman said.

"Two people were arrested and they will appear in Porirua District Court tomorrow charged with common assault."

The game was between Norths and Para Plim.

Both clubs said they were taking the incident seriously.

Norths junior convenor Andrew Scott said officials were not ruling out banning members involved in the brawl from future games.

He said he believed the brawl started after a dispute about a refereeing decision.

"The club is taking this incident very seriously. Violence is not tolerated in any shape or form and will be dealt with."

Para Plim president Mike Barry said the club was still deciding how to deal with members that were involved because it was a first for the club.

He expected a club meeting to be held tomorrow night after the duo's court appearance.

Wellington Rugby Football Union spokeswoman Bronwyn Williams said the organisation and its member clubs did not condone acts of violence on or off the field.

"Together with the two clubs involved we will act to ensure appropriate measures are taken once the matter is dealt with by the police. Wellington Rugby remains committed to ensuring that children, parents, coaches and spectators are able to enjoy the game."

The Wellington Rugby Referees Association was not immediately available.

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