Rugby fracas under investigation

Exeter University vs Loughborough final

An investigation is underway into crowd behaviour at a student rugby final between Exeter University and Loughborough at Saracens’ Stone X Stadium. 

Scuffles broke out between rival supporters and a 19-year-old man was assaulted after a dispute in a car park after the match. One person ran into a vehicle containing other students.

This isn’t the first-time poor behaviour has been reported at a student rugby game. In February police were called after a brawl between players and supporters in a Cardiff- Exeter University match, which resulted in Ollie Leatherbarrow, who also plays for Exeter Chiefs, being suspended for eight weeks.

No arrests have been made following the fracas and after a review of the CCTV footage, no further police action was taken. 

The Rugby Football Union has confirmed it is looking into the matter. “Following a truly exceptional display of student rugby at the BUCS Super Rugby and Women’s National League National Championship Finals, we are working in partnership with the RFU and the SRFU (Student’s RFU) to conduct a thorough investigation into the events and crowd behaviour that took place within the stadium. BUCS has strict regulations regarding misconduct, and we will continue to work with universities to develop positive club culture and initiatives and ensure that this is the focus moving forwards.”  Colleges Sports Organisation and has strict regulations in place about any misconduct. 

The final finished with Exeter winning the BUCS Rugby Super Cup 48-44 after extra time.