Schoolboy footballer, 14, left covered in blood after being ‘punched in mass brawl at match’

A 14-year-old boy was left covered in blood after allegedly being punched in the face following a mass brawl at a youth football match in Bedford. The boy, playing for St Joseph’s U15’s away against Wixams Wanderers, was left with a bloodied face following the incident on Saturday. Police were called to reports of a […]

A 14-year-old boy was left covered in blood after allegedly being punched in the face following a mass brawl at a youth football match in Bedford.

The boy, playing for St Joseph’s U15’s away against Wixams Wanderers, was left with a bloodied face following the incident on Saturday.

@MartinPowell3/Twitter

Police were called to reports of a mass brawl involving around 20 people, including players and spectators.

Martin Powell, a UEFA B and Luton Town academy coach, shared the photo on Twitter.

He wrote: “What’s the game coming to when someone from the opposition side runs on to a pitch and punches a 14 year old lad in the face?”

Andy Southam, Bedfordshire Police Detective Chief Inspector, said: “We were called at around 12noon on Saturday to reports of a disturbance at a football match off Harrier Leys, Wixams.

“Between 15 and 20 people were reportedly involved in an affray at a youth football match. Those involved included players and spectators.

“Officers attended, by which time the disorder had been broken up.

“We are in contact with the Bedfordshire FA over this incident, and would welcome any witnesses or anyone with relevant details to come forward.”

A spokesman for the Bedfordshire FA said: “We are aware of an incident that took place during the fixture between Wixams Wanderers under-15s and St Joseph’s Youth on Saturday.

“The matter is being investigated by the Bedfordshire Police and we are assisting them with their investigation.

“Our Safeguarding Officer is also in regular contact with both clubs. As this matter is ongoing it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage.”

Anyone with information has been to contact police on 101 or via the Bedfordshire Police website, quoting reference 190 of 7 December.