Investigation begins after Samoa international victim of racist abuse - Ruck

Investigation begins after Samoa international victim of racist abuse

An investigation has been launched after New Zealand-born Samoa international lock Filo Paulo was targeted with a racist slur by a supporter.

The 32-year-old was making his Cardiff RFC debut at the Talbot Athletic Ground, helping Steve Law’s squad out with an injury crisis in the second row, as the side went down 20-18 in the Indigo Group Premiership clash.

“There were words exchanged between the person concerned and the boys in our technical zone. Our subs reacted.” said  Cardiff Blues team manager Iestyn Williams.

A report on Cardiffbluesblog.com claimed a supporter yelled “Go back to Tonga, amongst other things”.

Williams told Wales Online the comment was “something you don’t want to hear on a rugby field”. He confirmed Cardiff would ask Aberavon to investigate further.

“Hopefully it can be resolved between the two clubs. If not, the [Welsh Rugby] Union will have to get involved.”

Paulo was born in New Zealand and represents Samoa at international level, winning 37 caps including at the recent Rugby World Cup.

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