The Group 4 grand final at Jack Woolaston Oval should have seen one team triumph in victory after a hard-fought season but crowds left Sunday’s game shaking their heads.

Yet another grand final marred with violence.

As players were sent off, others took their actions out on the field, with the crowd spilling onto the ground.

Police have been called in to investigate claims an official was headbutted and verbal threats levelled at others on the ground.

While those allegations are in the hands of the police, a video capturing the day was streamed live and is online for all to watch.

All this in front of children, families, long-time supporters and club stalwarts, and those looking to watch the two best teams battle it out on the field.

Swearing, rude gestures and abuse has become the norm from the sideline, and it’s not good enough.

Instead of talking about the thrilling plays, the talk of the town – and further beyond in league circles – is the drama that has become Group 4.

Everyone knows sometimes the passion in the moment overrides rational thinking on the field and emotions get the better of players, but Sunday’s spectacle was a downright disappointment.

Group 4 President Mick Schmiedel says the code’s officials are outraged and disappointed. And so they should be.

For a second year running, chaos has taken over the grand final between cross-town rivals, Norths and Wests. 

And it can’t continue. Troublemakers should be banned, those who engage in violent or unruly behaviour should be stamped out. Crowds that hurl abuse should be kicked out. Referees should not be vilified for decisions – there are appropriate avenues clubs can take if they don’t agree.

Rugby league is already in the spotlight for the wrong reasons with allegations of match-fixing and questionable off-field behaviour, on a national level. Now in the bush, it’s not much better. And enough is enough. This is not rugby league and these people should not be allowed to continue to bring the game into disrepute.

If Group 4 doesn’t act swiftly, then crowds will vote with their feet, and so to sponsors, and walk away from the game that so many have loved for generations in Tamworth. And then we will all lose out.