Match officials injured avoiding bottles thrown by Bulldogs fans after controversial loss – First Aid Courses in Canberra

Nathan Ryan

THE New South Wales police say they have identified two people for “allegedly throwing bottles” at NRL referees and officials following Canterbury’s controversial loss to South Sydney on Friday.An ambulance had to be called after Bulldogs fans pelted the match officials with projectiles which resulted in an official being taken to hospital.

“Reports a referee was hit by a bottle while leaving the field at Stadium Australia are incorrect,” a police statement said.

“The match official was avoiding a bottle which had been thrown from the crowd when he slipped.

“He was assisted to his feet and moved to the officials room. A second official sustained a shoulder injury after falling.

“Inquiries are continuing to verify the circumstances leading up to the official being injured.”

Reports on social media emerged that there was fighting in the stands between Bulldogs and Rabbitohs fans which the police are investigating.

“Two people were arrested for assault – one of these was for domestic violence offences,” Police said.

“In the second matter, a man is assisting with inquiries in relation to the alleged assault of another male. That person was taken to hospital further assessment.”

The NRL has already begun investigating the fans responsible for throwing objects and Bulldogs boss Raelene Castle has reportedly apologised to officials Gavin Morris and Gerard Sutton, labelling the action from the unruly fans as “unacceptable”.

Respected league journalist Steve Mascord has reported interchange official Darren Alchin was taken to hospital in an ambulance after being struck by an object thrown from the crowd.

Alchin has reportedly suffered a broken collarbone.
The incident broke out at the conclusion of the Rabbitohs 18-17 victory at ANZ Stadium.

It is almost certain that the NRL will hand down lifetime bans to the fans responsible for throwing objects.

Bulldogs coach Des Hasler stressed the actions of a few supporters is not supported by the club and promised an incident like that would not happen again.

“I want to offer an apology on behalf of the club,” Hasler said after the match.

“I’ve been to see the referee official who was struck by a projectile. He is ok. That is not us. That is not what this club is about and not what sport in this country is about.

“Unfortunately the behaviour of a few can spoil it for everybody.

“On behalf of the players and officials and everyone involved with the club, our sincerest apologies and it won’t happen again.”

Referee Gerard Sutton penalised James Graham for attacking the legs of Adam Reynolds which gifted South Sydney a shot at goal and ultimately the match.

Graham was committed to making the tackle which saw him wipe out the Rabbitohs halfback after he attempted a drop goal.