A shocking incident has rocked the non-league football scene, as a man has been taken into custody following an altercation that left the manager of Potters Bar Town requiring medical attention. The incident, which occurred prior to the scheduled match against Welling United, led to the postponement of the Isthmian League game, leaving fans and officials stunned.
The drama unfolded less than 40 minutes before the scheduled 15:00 GMT kick-off, with both clubs announcing the postponement via official statements. Potters Bar Town revealed that their manager, Sammy Moore, was receiving "appropriate medical care" and being supported by the club, while the Metropolitan Police confirmed that they were investigating the incident.
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police stated,
"Police were called to Welling Football Club following reports of an altercation between two men. Officers attended and found a 38-year-old man with injuries to his face. A 42-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm. He remains in custody."The police are currently investigating the incident, and the Football Association is also looking into the matter.
Potters Bar Town released a statement, saying, "The game was postponed following a serious incident involving a member of our management team. Police attended the ground and, following their involvement, the match was unable to proceed." The club added that their manager is receiving appropriate medical care and that they are seeking formal advice from the relevant authorities, including the league and the FA.
Welling United also released a statement, saying, "The club will be making no further comment at this time. Further news regarding the rearranged fixture will be communicated in due course." The club has been contacted by BBC Sport for comment, but has thus far declined to elaborate on the incident.
Nick Robinson, chair of the Isthmian League, told BBC Sport,
"The league is aware of this matter and are awaiting the written reports of the alleged incident. We cannot comment further at this time."The Isthmian League is the seventh tier in English football, and Potters Bar Town currently sit bottom of the table, with Welling two places above in 20th.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the non-league football community, with many calling for greater support and protection for managers and players. The use of violence and intimidation has no place in the sport, and it is essential that those responsible are held accountable.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful environment in football, and the need for swift and decisive action to be taken against those who engage in violent or intimidating behavior. As the investigation continues, fans and officials will be eagerly awaiting updates on the situation, and hoping for a swift resolution to this disturbing incident.
In the meantime, Potters Bar Town and Welling United will be working to rearrange the postponed fixture, and the Isthmian League will be monitoring the situation closely. The football community will be watching with interest as this story unfolds, and hoping that justice is served and that the sport can return to its core values of fair play and respect.
Original: BBC Sport
Image: BBC Sport
Written by Npsports
