Panthers apologise to Inglis over slur
SOUTH Sydney superstar Greg Inglis was allegedly called a “black dog” by a racist fan as he staggered off Panthers Stadium with concussion on Saturday night.
The Townsville Bulletin also understands the same person may have also racially abused Penrith star Tyrone Peachey during the Panthers’ 18- 14 win over the Rabbitohs.
Penrith yesterday issued Inglis an immediate public apology as general manager of football Phil Gould and Panthers group CEO Brian Fletcher work closely with the NRL and Souths to identify the offender.
Both clubs will call for the fan to be banned for life from all NRL games.
Close friends say Inglis was last night “distressed and understandably upset”.
Inglis told Rabbitohs general manager of football Shane Richardson of the abuse before the controversial matter was forwarded directly to the NRL integrity unit, who launched an immediate investigation.
Inglis was being assisted from the field for a head injury assessment early in the second half when the incident occurred.
Sections of the crowd booed the Queensland and Australian champion while he was on the ground receiving treatment and then as he walked off. He did not return to the field and was suffering headaches still yesterday morning.
NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg has been made aware of the complaint.
“Greg said he doesn’t mind getting booed when he leaves the field – that’s part of footy. But to be racially abused is totally unacceptable,” Inglis’ manager Allan Gainey said.
There were further suggestions last night Peachey was jeered and abused because of his decision to quit Penrith after this season to join the Gold Coast Titans.
“We are working with the NRL and Panthers to try and find out who abused Greg,” Souths CEO Blake Solly said.
“This kind of conduct is unacceptable in rugby league.”
Penrith officials have been thoroughly searching CCTV in hope of finding the offender. They know the exact minute Inglis left the field and approximately where he was seated.