Wanganui High School and the Wanganui Rugby Football Union are investigating an under-16s schoolboy game that was called off early after multiple fights broke out on Saturday.
The match report shows one WHS player was sent off and two more sinbinned before the game was canned at the high school against Palmerston North Boys High School's U16 B team. Although the game was played under the Manawatu Secondary Schools competition banner, WRFU chief executive Dale Cobb said judiciary action from the union might be necessary in a "cold, hard effort" to send a message to schools and clubs to cut out violent play.
"It's absolutely a disappointment and it's something players need to take responsibility for.
"The behaviour is alarming players need a reality check."
WRFU assigned the referee for the game and Cobb said the incidents showed a complete lack of respect for the officials, who volunteer their time.