RFU launch investigation into Bath fan incident

Aviva Premiership

RFU launch investigation into Bath fan incident

PA Sport

April 2, 2016

Referee, Greg Garner smiles as the crowd applaud a decision during the Aviva Premiership match between Bath Rugby and Saracens© Stu Forster/Getty Images

The Rugby Football Union has launched an investigation after a supporter allegedly gained access to the officials' dressing room and confronted referee Greg Garner following Bath's Aviva Premiership game against Saracens on Friday.

Garner had earlier sent off Bath's England back Anthony Watson for a dangerous tackle on Saracens' Alex Goode as the west country club crashed to a 30-10 Recreation Ground defeat.

It is understood that a male fan made his way into Garner's room, which is situated close to the players' changing rooms at the Recreation Ground.

"I can confirm that we are investigating," an RFU spokesperson said.

Bath, meanwhile, have yet to comment on the alleged incident. Garner consulted television replays before brandishing a red card, but Watson was furious as he left the pitch, reacting in disbelief at the official's decision and appearing to have words with Saracens wing Chris Ashton, who had pushed him following his challenge on Goode and seemingly impeded him beforehand.

Speaking after the game, Bath head coach Mike Ford said: "By the letter of the law, it is a sending off, isn't it? He [Watson] got underneath Alex, and Alex landed awkwardly.

"You get underneath the guy jumping, take his legs away and he lands awkwardly like he did, it's a red. Anthony is gutted. He was going for the ball, Ashton checked his run, and then all of a sudden he is underneath the player. It was an accident. We will have a look at it. We will fight his corner."

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RFU launch investigation into Bath fan incident