The New South Wales Rugby Union will conduct an investigation into an incident where a player was punched by a spectator during the closing stages of Saturday's Shute Shield Elimination Semi-Final between Gordon and Warringah.

After a scuffle broke out near the boundary fence in the 77th minute at Sydney's Pittwater Park, two spectators became involved with players on the field, causing play to be stopped.

"NSW Rugby and Warringah Rugby are already working together to identify those involved and ensure they are brought to account," said Jim L'Estrange, NSWRU chief executive officer.

"That type of behaviour is unacceptable in club rugby or any other level of the sport and will not be tolerated."

"There are close-up photographs and television footage of the incident which we are reviewing as a matter of urgency so we are confident once the culprits have been identified the appropriate action will be taken."

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