AFL Riverina will investigate an altercation between a field umpire and goal umpire in a Riverina League game on Saturday,
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Players and spectators were stunned at half-time at Kindra Park, Coolamon, when two match officials became involved in a heated exchange in the middle of the ground.
Central umpire, Rob Apted, and goal umpire, Denis Rudd, had to be separated by their counterparts as they exchanged words and then came to grips.
The umpiring group left the ground for the break and Rudd did not return to officiate in the second half.
Long-time local footballer followers said they never heard of such a bizarre incident.
AFL Riverina chairman Michael Irons has launched an investigation and said such incidents were not a good look for the game.
“We’re aware of the incident and will be asking for statements from both umpires,” Irons said.
It took swift action from experienced umpire Brian Robinson to help defuse the situation.
A club volunteer then stepped in to goal umpire the second half so the game between Coolamon and Griffith could continue in the second half.
Only two points separated the two teams at half-time before Griffith stepped it up and ran out comfortable 24-point winners.
