Sometimes your temper can get the better of you during a game, just ask Diego Costa, but Maitland Rugby Club’s Mark Meafua has ruined his career in a moment of madness during a regional under 19’s Grand Final.
The 18-year-old flanker, who elbowed a Newcastle player seconds earlier and was about to be given a red card, was given his marching orders after violently pushing referee Niklas Gaa in frustration.
Gaa fell to the ground as Maitland and Newcastle Wanderers players looked on in utter disbelief. He was immediately sent for an early bath and the look on his face shows a hint of regret and embarrassment.
Here’s the shocking incident in full:
The 18-year-old prodigy was then given a 10-year ban from the Newcastle and Hunter Rugby Union in Australia’s New South Wales, with his actions seen as ‘totally unacceptable’ under the Australian Rugby Union guidelines.
Rather ironically, Meafua was set to receive the Jack Scott Medal for the best and fairest player in the competition.
In an interview via Sky Sports, NHRU general manager Andy Fairfull was shocked by the incident, and explained that the association will assist in rehabilitation for Meafua:
“We have not seen anything like this in our zone in 30 years,”
“It is unacceptable to verbally or physically abuse a referee. The sanctions show that if you undertake that behaviour, you will be out of the game for a serious amount of time.
“But, as well as ensuring Nik’s well being, the union has an obligation to provide Mark with the appropriate support.
“Within that 10 years, the referee’s association and Maitland will work with the young man to assist in some rehabilitation.”
Thankfully, referee Niklas Gaa was not injured during the incident and continued to officiate afterwards.
Maitland eventually suffered a huge 28-3 loss to Newcastle Wanderers, but many were talking about this moment of madness after the game and it has been picked up by media all over the world.
Thoughts on the incident? Does Meafu deserve a 10-year ban?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
