A football team in the United Kingdom were on the receiving end of a brutal attack, leaving one of their players with “life-changing injuries”.
On Saturday afternoon, Avenue Hotspur FC and Llanrumney Athletic met in the Division 1 Cardiff & District League.
Avenue Hotspur were away from home for the clash, losing 3-1 in a game which saw three red and two yellow cards after the final whistle.
But it was what followed later on which was truly shocking. According to a report from The Mirror, the Avenue Hotspur players were attacked with weapons.
The club posted a statement about the “really distressing and frightening” ordeal, which left 32-year-old goalkeeper Joel Collins with “life-changing injuries” according to police.
Collins is said to have had his kneecap smashed and now requires surgery.
“We are relieved to report that Joel Collins is in good spirits and is currently undergoing surgery to repair a broken knee,” the statement on X read.
“This shocking incident, in which several players were violently attacked as they left the changing rooms, is completely unacceptable and was a really distressing and frightening experience for everyone involved.
“We are fully cooperating with the police and the South Wales Football Association in their investigations, and our primary at present is focussed on supporting all those affected at this time.
“As a family focused community football club proud to represent the Ely community, we are committed to providing a fun filled, safe and inclusive environment for all and are hoping to return to playing in the next few weeks.”
Image: Avenue Hotspur
South Wales Police are investigating the attack, calling for witnesses to come forward and revealing those who commited the “appalling” level of violence wore face coverings to hide their identities.
A report from the BBC notes that opposition Llanrumney Athletic believe there was no involvement from their players or staff.
They issued a statement themselves and stressed that action will be taken if they find out that anyone associated with their club was involved in the incident.
Image: Avenue Hotspur & BBC
“Following Saturday’s game vs Avenue Hotspurs, Llanrumney Athletic would firstly like to wish anyone injured in the incident a speedy recovery,” the statement said.
“We were here for football and no one should ever have to worry about whether they will make it to work the next day following a game of football.
“We strongly condemn the actions of the individuals involved in this incident. To the club’s knowledge, no players or coaching staff were involved in this incident and should any information come to light to contradict this, they will be dealt with accordingly.
“Llanrumney Athletic is cooperating with all ongoing enquiries.”Featured Image Credit: X/Avenue Hotspur/Joel Collins
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