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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Gavin Quinn

Munster fan 'detained by stadium authorities' for confronting Billy Vunipola after Saracens defeat

European rugby chiefs have condemned the actions of a Munster supporter who confronted Billy Vunipola after Munster's defeat to Saracens today.

The supporter was 'detained by stadium authorities' after confronting the England star - who controversially supported axed Australian full-back Israel Folau earlier this week.

Folau shared a social media post condemning homosexuality and was then sacked by Australia, but Vunipola was caught in a storm for defending Folau as he received a warning from both Saracens and the RFU for his comments.

The 26-year-old was booed by Munster fans throughout the Champions Cup semi-final, with his second half try effectively ending Munster's challenge.

And after Vunipola was confronted by a fan after the 32-16 victory, European Professional Club Rugby released a statement condemning the actions of the supporter.

(2018 Getty Images)

The statement said: "EPCR does not condone the entry of a spectator to the field of play. Following the regrettable incident at the Ricoh Arena, the spectator in question is currently being detained by stadium authorities."

Speaking to BT Sport after the match, Vunipola stood by the beliefs.

"We are grateful to play in such big games, grateful to have such good team-mates and friends and family," Vunipola said.

"It's more than just a rugby team and I'm thankful I'm playing for them. We were somewhere close to our best. There were a few boys who weren't as fit as they wanted to be but guys stepped up.

"Behind closed doors I've felt a lot of love and kindness shown to me. From my point of view, I believe in what I believe in. There was never any intention to hurt anyone. I'm just grateful to be able to play and be fit."

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