The grand final of the Koiari Rugby League competition between the Rux Tigers and the I.C.E Panthers ended with a clash minutes before fulltime when supporters rushed onto the field of play causing a brawl.
Five minutes before fulltime a commotion between players on field saw supporters rushing in from all ends of the field that sparked the fight between Tigers supporters and Panthers players.
However, police providing security moved in and quickly contained the situation firing rapid gun shots into the air and tear gas onto the field which dispersed the crowds.
The game ceased immediately with Tigers leading 16-8 and were awarded the Koiari Rugby premiership title.
Member for Kairuku Hiri Peter Isoaimo who was also there to witness and oversee the league urged the supporters during the presentation of prizes to control their mindset and accept the results of any game played.
“But I guess it’s normal for locals like us in any finals for sports in local communities,” MP Isoaimo said.
“I think it’s not the players but the spectators we need to change our mindset and have a positive mindset and attitude in accepting the outcome of any game.”
With that, the member presented a K10,000 cheque to the Association and cash prizes to the winners and runner-up’s of all divisions including consolation cash prizes to the man of the match players in all divisions to encourage the players to build the local footy.