Investigation after fans clash during rugby cup final match
THE Welsh Rugby Union is investigating after fans clashed at the Scarlets Conference Cup final in Llanelli between Felinfoel RFC and Narberth RFC Seconds.
The match on Saturday, May 7, at Parc y Scarlets saw Narberth crowned cup winners with a 52-3 victory over Felinfoel, and they also claimed another cup for winning the Conference West League.
However, the occasion was marred by fighting, allegedly between supporters of both clubs, in the spectator stand. It is understood some fans had to be escorted through the lounge and out of the stadium.
Narberth had supporters who had travelled on coaches to the afternoon fixture and the club said they were “hugely saddened” by the events that unfolded.
No police were called and no trouble spilled on to the field of play, but it is understood the bar was subsequently shut down after the trouble.
A WRU spokesperson confirmed that an investigation into what happened has been launched and said: “We are investigating a potential spectator code of conduct breach following the match between Felinfoel and Narberth at Parc y Scarlets on Saturday. We are in contact with both teams along with Parc y Scarlets.”
A Scarlets spokesperson at Parc y Scarlets confirmed the club were investigating the incident in conjunction with the WRU and the clubs involved.
Narberth RFC said in a statement: “Narberth RFC were hugely saddened to see events unfold in the stand at Parc y Scarlets on Saturday, May 7. From observations and feedback received, it would appear that whilst the vast majority of spectators from both clubs in the ground behaved impeccably, a very small number of individuals negatively impacted on what was a great day of rugby for both clubs who should be proud of reaching the finals.
“Narberth RFC have initiated its own investigation and have already contacted the WRU to reassure them that they will work with any WRU investigation and those of the event organisers in order to identify where possible the root causes of such an incident and ensure that action is taken within the scope of our powers to make appropriate redress with any individuals associated with Narberth RFC who were involved.”
Felinfoel RFC club secretary Clive Richards said: “Further to incidents reported during the Narberth Seconds v Felinfoel Seconds game at Parc y Scarlets on Saturday, May 7, Felinfoel RFC’S position is that it does not condone any violent behaviour by anyone and supports the WRU code of conduct, and anyone involved with Felinfoel RFC who breaches the code of conduct will be severely dealt with by the club.
“The day was marred unfortunately by a small minority of spectators, who tarnished what was a wonderful day for rugby.
“Felinfoel and Narberth players, coaches shared in the after-match celebrations congratulating one another, had photos taken together and applauded one another when they received their trophies and both Narberth and Felinfoel players, coaches, team managers were a credit to their clubs.”
The day after the incident Felinfoel RFC initiated its own inquiry which is ongoing and informed the WRU of its position and offered all the help it could in finding who was involved and why this incident happened and to make sure it does not happen again.
Mr Richards added: “Felinfoel RFC will not comment on the actual issues and leave the WRU to conclude its investigation.
“It also reiterates its position that if anyone from Felinfoel RFC is proven to have been involved they will be severely dealt with.”