Nigel Owens was praised for his part in a special game of rugby between England and France on Saturday. One Twitter user did not agree with this general sentiment though. Instead he blamed Owens' performance for England topping Wales in the tournament. He also sent homophobic abuse, not worth reprinting, in the Welsh ref's direction via Twitter.
South Wales Police announced last night that they would be investigating the matter.
Thank you for advising @swpolice about the comments made by @edrydJames the matter is being investigated. Kind regards SWP
— South Wales Police (@swpolice) March 21, 2015
Owens told Wales Online that he was saddened to see comments of this nature.
I’m disappointed with those comments.
With social media you are open to those kind of comments more. Sometimes people say things without thinking and you think ‘hang on, what do you mean there’?
The 43-year-old challenged the user on Twitter shortly after receiving the message.
@edrydJames you want me to report this homophobic tweet do you???
— Nigel Owens (@Nigelrefowens) March 21, 2015
The user in question has since claimed that it was part of "a drunken childish challenge".
After yesterday's events, I am deeply ashamed that a drunken childish challenge went out of hand. I apologize sincerely @Nigelrefowens
— Edryd James (@edrydJames) March 22, 2015
After yesterday's events, I am deeply ashamed that a drunken childish challenge went out of hand. I apologize sincerely @Nigelrefowens
— Edryd James (@edrydJames) March 22, 2015
Video: Nigel Owens Brilliantly Shot Down Chris Robshaw’s Protests With A Look And Word
Picture credit: Piaras Ó Mídheach / SPORTSFILE
