Discharged.

Connacht Rugby have released a statement after new signing Sevu Reece was discharged without conviction following a hearing for domestic abuse.

The talented winger is due to join the western province next month once the Mitre 10 Cup is over, and has been in excellent form – topping the try-scoring charts in the New Zealand competition.

A report in the Otago Daily Times this morning states that on July 1st while out drinking, Reece grabbed his girlfriend to the ground following an argument. She ended up with injuries to her upper face, bruising to the left side of her waist and left knee. Reece was then stopped by a nearby doorman who intervened.

During the court proceedings, a letter from the head of operations for Connacht rugby informed the judge that a conviction would mean his contract would be withdrawn.

Judge Clark said a conviction would have ended the Fijian-born player’s Irish contract – and that would have been out of all proportion to the gravity of the offending. Reece also admitted having an alcohol problem.

Reece was ordered to pay his victim $750 within 28 days.

“It does appear to me the victim has forgiven you. You have acknowledged you have a problem with alcohol and have been sober for three months.” Judge Clark said.

Connacht and the IRFU say they are aware of the reports and but won’t comment any further as they are “currently seeking to clarify information around the situation.”