Ryan Leslie Rayner is banned from The Club Hotel Motel for a period of six months after he punched another man because he “niggled” him earlier in the night as he was angry that Rayner was dating his ex-girlfriend.

The Roma Magistrates Court heard on December 16, the incident occurred at the hotel after the Roma Cup event.

“The defendant and victim are known to each other and the defendant’s current partner is the complainant’s ex-partner,” police prosecutor sergeant David Longhurst said.

“The pair were in separate groups and later in the evening in the smoking area, the defendant was several metres away and then suddenly lunged at the victim throwing two punches.

“He stated the victim had niggled him earlier that night.”

The prosecutor said ultimately it’s a young person before the court with no history engaging in a fight.

“Luckily the punches were blocked and there were no significant injuries,” he said.

“Given the lack of history, this could be dealt with by way of a fine and no conviction recorded.”

The court heard Rayner was born and raised in Miles and has completed his butcher apprenticeship and is very active in the local football team.

Rayner pleaded guilty to one common assault charge.

Magistrate Peter Saggers fined the defendant $500 and banned him from entering the The Club Hotel Motel for six months.

“This happened after a day when everyone had been drinking,” the magistrate said.

“I understand you go out with the girl the guy previously dated … something happened and fortunately nothing happened from it.

“These things can go very badly … let it go next time.”