Dragons assistant coach could face charge after questionable behavior

NEWS: The Dragons defeated the Ospreys 20-5 at Rodney Parade in the United Rugby Championship’s Round Five, marking their first victory at home in almost a year.

In just 27 minutes, Ospreys wing Mat Protheroe was sent out for a dangerous challenge. Hooker Bradley Roberts and wing Rio Dyer’s two tries helped the Dragons win.

The ugly-looking incident led to a bizarre fight between Dragons head of performance Dan Baugh and referee Ben Whitehouse.

Protheroe collided fatally head-on with Dragons flyhalf Will Reed after pursuing a high ball too upright.

Referee Whitehouse was forced to respond to what he saw to be an insult from former Canada international Baugh before issuing a straight red card.

Saying, “Dan, Dan, Dan, Dan,” Whitehouse spoke.

Enter now. Ever yell at me, you? [Baugh cuts me off] No, listen carefully to what I’m saying. I’ll be sitting in the stands if you ever yell at me or talk to me like that again.

Baugh retorted, “I’m talking to my players.” Ben touched Whitehouse, saying, “I can talk to my players,” as he turned to go.

“Avoid touching me,” the irate referee yelled.

Whitehouse immediately turned to the sidelines and declared, “This man stays off the field from now on.”

“Please do not touch me,” the offended referee cried.

With a quick glance to the sidelines, Whitehouse said, “This man stays off the field from now on.”

“Never again should Dan Baugh set foot on the field. Thank you very much.

“Thank you, but could you just make sure the team manager doesn’t let that guy back on the field?” he replied.

“It will be discussed after the game.”

Though it’s unknown at this time if Baugh will suffer any repercussions, it’s definitely improper to touch the referee at any level of game.

After the game, Dragons head coach Dai Flanagan said, “Dan was unable to return to the field while I was up in the gantry trying to figure things out.” This could lead to a URC charge.

“Dan was unable to return to the field while I was up in the gantry trying to figure things out.”

“I’ll investigate and try to get in touch with Ben.”

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