EP Rugby condemns racism, assault of referee after another club rugby bust-up turns ugly

Eastern Province Rugby has been rocked by another ugly, violent club rugby incident in a matter of months after players got into a physical scuffle and a referee was assaulted in a club game between Kowie United and Swallows RFC (Makhanda) in Port Alfred last Saturday.

According to an eye-witness, one of Swallows' managers who asked to remain anonymous, the game had a tense atmosphere throughout and after the match an unnamed Kowie United member allegedly "slapped" the referee, Nqaba Lamani, after unhappiness with some of the officiating decisions. 

Two months ago, shocking video footage emerged online showing a violent melee breaking out at full-time between Jeffreys Bay and PE Harlequins rugby clubs, where players were stabbed and some hospitalised.

In the latest incident, according to community newspaper, Talk of the Town, Makhanda's Swallows (an historically black club) beat hosts Kowie United (historically coloured club) 25-17, but the game was marred by the attack on referee Lamani.

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The incident also turned racial after one Kowie United affiliated rugby and (Station Hill Cricket Club) cricket administrator, Andy Jones, allegedly used the K-word in WhatsApp messages referring to Swallows' black players.

News24 obtained screenshots of the WhatsApp group messages wherein Jones uses the term, which is considered hate speech in South Africa - crimen injuria by law.

Jones initially told News24 he was not able to comment on the allegations of his use of the K-word before changing tact and striking a contrite tone, saying he had apologised to those he offended in the text message.

"I'm really sorry about what I said. I was under the influence.