The incident, which occurred during the Denman Devils and Murrurundi Mavericks' showdown on Sunday, May 19, also led to one distressed father, Craig Holman, turning to social media for justice.

He stated his involvement in rugby league had ended after his son, Ryan, suffered numerous facial injuries in a dark day for the code.

Mr Holman's Facebook post received about 300 reactions and 100 comments, and was shared a further 80 times.

Police allege the on-field incident took place in the final minutes of the game - and resulted in the Murrurundi representative being knocked unconscious.

It is understood Holman was "king hit" and then punched again while on the ground.

While the Denman Devil was sent from the field, the injured Maverick was conveyed to Muswellbrook District Hospital and later transferred to John Hunter in Newcastle for further treatment.

He remained there for a week where he underwent surgery for multiple fractures to his jaw.

A number of plates were screwed into his jaw, too.

A statement of complaint was made to Hunter Valley Police District, kick-starting an investigation.

On Monday, June 10, thanks to the assistance of officers from the Tuggerah Lakes Police District, a 27-year-old man was arrested at a Lake Haven address.

He was conveyed to Wyong Police Station where he was charged with recklessly cause grievous bodily harm.

The man was granted conditional bail to appear at Wyong Local Court on July 3.

Country Rugby League (CRL) was contacted by ACM in regards to the matter late last month, but did not respond.