The Canterbury Rugby Union is investigating how one of the region's premier rugby events was spoilt by racial abuse.

Fijian player Sake Aca, from Christchurch Football Club, came off in tears after allegedly being abused by a Lincoln University supporter on the sideline of Sunday's Hawkins Trophy Rugby Final.

Rugby Development Manager Mike O`Donovan says the club is standing by him.

"If he has any issues that he wants to deal with, we know that we need to be there supporting him, and his young family."

"Making sure that he can get through it, and making sure he can continue to play the game he is so good at."

Lincoln University has condemned the behaviour and launched its own investigation.

They won the match 24-19, and with it their first title for 34 years.