MY ACCOUNT
Rugby Australia’s chief executive Andy Marinos has condemned the “unacceptable” and “offensive” remarks directed towards England and Eddie Jones in Sydney.
England responded to defeat in the first Test by triumphing in the following two meetings to secure back-to-back series victories over the Wallabies Down Under.
The Red Rose had to deal with a late push from Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, where they held firm to win 21-17 and seal the slender series win.
Australian-born England coach Jones was greeted with abuse in the aftermath from the SCG crowd, berated as a “traitor” on two occasions by different spectators.
Jones – who was head coach of his country between 2001 and 2005, but has been in charge of England since 2015 – labelled the perpetrators as “clowns”, and Marinos has subsequently apologised.
“The offensive remarks made by spectators in the members’ areas towards England staff were unacceptable – and not representative of the values of rugby,” a Rugby Australia statement read.
“We have a zero-tolerance policy for inappropriate behaviour, and we are working with Venues NSW on appropriate sanctions for these individuals.
“Rugby prides itself on values of respect and integrity – as seen in the players of both teams after the final whistle of a hard-fought series at the SCG on Saturday night.
“It is our expectation that spectators adhere to these values of respect and integrity when attending rugby matches – and, we would hope, in society in general.
“Please, cheer for your team with all that you have – but please, always show respect for others.”
In a further incident at the SCG, another spectator was caught on film climbing onto the roof of the grandstand and urinating, and Marinos confirmed the fan received a lifetime ban.
“The deplorable actions of the alleged intruder that made his way to the roof of the grandstand were disgraceful and dangerous,” the statement added.
“This individual has been issued with a life ban from Rugby Australia events – and we will continue to support the authorities in their handling of the matter.”
