Uni rugby match abandoned after almost 30 players brawl on pitch

BUCS said it was investigating the fight between the Cardiff University and Swansea University teams

The entrance to Dunvant RFC. A clubhouse can be seen in the background with some cars parked and on the right, a sign says: Dunvant RFC. Private property no right of way. No dogs allowed.
The rugby match took place at Dunvant RFC in Swansea [Google]

A university rugby match had to be abandoned when almost all 30 players began brawling in the final minutes.

Cardiff University was beating Swansea University 28-19 at Dunvant RFC's ground when both sides began fighting on Wednesday night.

The clash was sparked by a high tackle on a Cardiff player which angered visiting players and fans, who then threw beers at the brawling teams.

League organisers British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) said they wished to express their "sincere disappointment" for the abandonment of the game and confirmed an investigation was ongoing. Both universities condoned the behaviour at the game and said they were co-operating with BUCS.

The fight took place near the touchline, as students watched from the stands.

Those in the crowd threw beer over the players as the referee tried to defuse the situation.

BUCS, the national governing body for higher education sports in the UK, said in a statement that the game was abandoned by the referee in the 78th minute.

"We will progress quickly with an investigation into this incident, working with members at both institutions as well as the Welsh Rugby Union," the body added.

Under current regulations, as more than 75% of the game had been played, the result will stand, "subject to any potential disciplinary action," said BUCS.

The match carried huge significance for both sides who currently sit 9th and 10th in the BUCS Super Rugby table.

The incident comes after Cardiff University cricket club was suspended for the rest of the academic year, and players banned, following an investigation into reports of serious misconduct during a night out.

A rugby pitch showing signs of degradation with bits of mud appearing through the grass. There is a white line marking on the pitch. A gilbert rugby sits on a tee on the right of the image.
Cardiff University were leading 28-19 when the game was abandoned in the closing minutes [Getty Images]

In a joint statement, Swansea University and Swansea University Students' Union said the behaviour was "unacceptable and does not reflect the values" of both organisations.

They added: "We recognise the concern and distress that this incident may have caused and apologise for its impact on those involved, including Cardiff University, the players, match officials and local rugby communities, along with our wider community."

Both said they were "actively co-operating with BUCS, the WRU, the Student Rugby Club and Cardiff University to ensure all relevant information is considered".

A Cardiff University spokesperson said: "We condemn the behaviour witnessed at last night's game in the strongest possible terms.

"We are working closely with colleagues from Swansea University and BUCS to investigate the incident. Whilst investigations remain ongoing, we will not be offering further comment."

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Category: General Sports