Fan is EJECTED from Suncorp Stadium for yelling ‘disgusting sledge at Jackson Hastings’ sister’ as police identify offender ‘thanks to NRL’s Hawkeye footage’ and spectators turning him in
- Offender reportedly shouted abuse at Luke Hastings as he lined up a kick
- Tigers five-eighth reported the incident to officials at Suncorp Stadium
- The spectator allegedly aimed his insults directly at Hastings’ sister
- Perpetrator was identified by security and escorted off premises by police
- Incident came two days after a massive brawl erupted at same venue
The final game of Magic Round was marred by a fan being marched out of Suncorp Stadium by police after allegedly directing abuse at Tigers five-eighth Jackson Hastings.
According to the Courier Mail and Fox Sports, the spectator yelled abuse at Hastings as he lined up a conversion during Wests’ 36-12 defeat against North Queensland on Sunday.
It is understood that Hastings subsequently complained to the officials at Suncorp Stadium, alleging the spectator had made derogatory comments towards his family and identified two his two sisters by name.
The alleged culprit (circled in red) was escorted out of the ground by the police
News Corp reported the comments were specifically aimed at the five-eighth’s sister.
The offender, who appeared to be wearing a Cowboys jersey, was eventually identified by police thanks to the NRL’s Hawkeye footage.
Some of the spectators next to him reportedly also alerted security after the incident.
‘We still don’t know exactly what was said,’ Andrew Voss said on Fox League.
The fan was marched from the ground by police after Hastings (pictured) complained about being sledged while he was taking a shot for goal
‘What we can tell you is that a fan was ejected at halftime, so those around the perpetrator gave him in.’
The incident comes just days after Brisbane’s 38-0 thrashing of Manly at the same venue was marred by a brawl midway through the first half that resulted in multiple punches, a coward punch, and one spectator going tumbling backwards down three rows of seats.
Ten individuals were issued move along directives by Queensland Police and one man was issued a public nuisance infringement with investigations to continue.
‘Police are working to identify those involved, however, no formal assault complaint has been received at this time,’ Queensland Police told Channel Seven.
NRL boss Andrew Abdo said any fans identified could expect lengthy bans from attending NRL matches.
‘There’s absolutely no place for violence at our games,’ he told News Corp.
‘Aside from the action the authorities may take, we will also ban any fan who engages in violence in the grandstands. It will not be tolerated.’
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