Media Release: Lower Mountains players commended

Following the incident that happened in the Blacktown City v Lower Mountains under 16 game last Saturday which has been thoroughly investigated it is found necessary to extend congratulations to the Lower Mountains team for their excellent behaviour and the manner in which they conducted themselves at the time and afterwards. <br><br>Every player in the team did everything possible to avoid confrontation and uphold their dignity and sportsmanship with their conduct, behaviour and sportsmanship being an example to all junior rugby league players.<br><br>Much has been said and written about the negative aspects of the incident and everyone is aware of the strong action that has been taken so far with more to follow and it is refreshing to be able to advise something positive and constructive such as the actions of the Lower Mountains team and the captain of the Blacktown City team.<br><br>Martin Meredith of the NSWRL Academy with support from Geoff Carr from the NSWRL and David Gallop from the NRL has arranged for complimentary admission tickets to the entire Lower Mountains under 16 team to attend the Bulldogs –v- Parramatta game this Friday night at ANZ Stadium. Further, the captain of the Blacktown City team Moustafa El-Ali (who wore jumper No.6) is also included following the responsible leadership role he adopted during the incident. <br><br>Moustafa’s actions were clearly visible to officials at the ground and he was publicly acknowledged at the presentation where he moved freely amongst the Lower Mountains players congratulating them on winning the game.<br><br>Further, it is necessary to advise that no action has been taken against the following players in the Blacktown City team – J Hardie, J Ruakere, B Xuereb, M El-Ali and A Halangahu.