All-in brawl at grand final day
YESTERDAY'S Ipswich Rugby League under 18 grand final turned into foot-brawl during a farcical last minute all-in fight involving players and spectators.
The game included a number of explosive incidents before a fight, with five minutes remaining, sparked chaotic scenes.
With players involved in numerous fights at the southern end of the ground a number of spectators ran on to the field and joined in the melee.
Security guards and other patrons also invaded the oval to attempt to break up the brawl and remove the offending pitch invaders.
The initial offender was dragged from the field by up to four security personnel before being himself attacked by other patrons as he was removed through a sea of spectators.
The incident forced an early end to the game and IRL operations manager Brendon Rose made an announcement to the crowd during the trophy presentation.
Mr Rose sent a stern warning that all games were videoed and offenders would be identified in a review of the footage.
IRL chairman Jack Rhea told the QT the offenders were in the hands of the police.
"They've been removed from the venue by the police," Mr Rhea said.
"This incident was a disgrace.
"We will be looking at the footage tomorrow and if they can be identified they will never be allowed back into a game of rugby league in Ipswich as long as I have a say."
He said the IRL would assist police with their inquiries.
The incident came on the back of similar ugly scenes at a Brisbane Junior Rugby League grand final day at Wacol on Saturday.
Spectators also invaded the ground during both an under-15 and under-18 match at the junior carnival.
