Fiji-born Waikato rugby player Sevu Reece has been discharged without conviction for assaulting his girlfriend in a move that has saved his career.

Radio New Zealand reports Reece appeared in Hamilton District Court yesterday for sentencing on one count of male assaults female.

The 21-year-old Mooloos winger recently signed a contract with Irish club Connacht and was set to join the team following the conclusion of Waikato’s season next month.

Reece and his partner of two years, along with some associates, were out drinking in Hamilton’s central city when an argument erupted between the pair.

He is due to leave for Ireland next month.