Pitch invaders threatened with jail

Australian rugby bosses have warned jail terms may await any more World Cup pitch invaders.

A competition at which security has been a prime concern because of the on-going coalition action in Iraq was badly scarred at Suncorp Stadium when a fan raced onto the pitch and attempted to tackle Louis Keon as the replacement South African fly-half attempted a late conversion during the 60-10 win over Samoa.

A 29-year-old Sydney man has been arrested over the incident and charged with interfering with a player, which could bring a maximum fine of A$1500 (€900).

Though International Rugby Board chairman Syd Miller appeared dismissive over the matter, claiming “one incident in 40 matches is not a bad average”, Australian Rugby Union chief executive John O’Neill has warned prospective copycats they risk huge punishments.

“We will not hesitate to use the full force of the law, including jail terms, against anyone involved in this type of incident,” he said.

“Although our security services have generally been first rate so far, we have adopted a zero tolerance policy and we will not be treating this incident lightly.

“Suncorp Stadium is a difficult ground to secure given the proximity of the stands to the pitch but we were still surprised this should happen.

“We will leave no stone unturned to ensure there is no reoccurrence in the remaining eight matches.”

Host nation Australia will be in action at Suncorp in one of the two remaining fixtures to be played in Brisbane during the tournament.

The Wallabies take on Scotland on Saturday, with England facing Wales at the same venue 24 hours later before the competition switches back to Sydney for the semi-finals, third-place match and the decider on November 22.

World Cup organisers have already vowed to review their security operation and O’Neill confirmed extra police would be installed this weekend in an effort to ensure there is no repeat.

“We will go back through our systems and procedures to see if there is anything we can learn.

“But this was a human error. By and large we have been very happy at the way things have progressed.”