Rugby invader to face court
A man who allegedly charged a South African player during a Rugby World Cup match at Suncorp Stadium will face a Queensland court today.
The 29-year-old Sydney man jumped the fence and ran onto the ground near the end of Saturday night's South Africa-Samoa match, allegedly charging at reserve goalkicker Louis Koen.
The man brushed Koen but then crashed to the ground where he lay unconscious before he was stretchered off the field and taken to Brisbane Royal Hospital for observation.
He was charged with interfering with a player under Section 32 of the Major Sporting Facilities Act and will appear in the Brisbane Magistrates Court today.
Inspector Dennis Bauer, head of the Queensland Police security team for the World Cup matches, said the incident was reviewed at a meeting on security arrangements on Sunday.
"The safety of players and officials is paramount and in association with the event organisers we will be taking all necessary measures to ensure the appropriate level of protection," Insp Bauer said.
He said police had been impressed by the overall good behaviour of more than 300,000 people who have attended World Cup matches in Queensland.
"We will do everything we can to ensure this record is maintained," Insp Bauer said.
Post a comment about this article
Please sign in to leave a comment.
Becoming a member is free and easy, sign up here.