A football team was subjected to a horrifying attack by masked assailants armed with baseball bats and other weapons, resulting in a player suffering a shattered knee. The incident occurred following a heated match between Welsh goalkeeper Joel Collins, 32, and his team, Avenue Hotspur FC, who had just experienced a 3-1 defeat to Llanrumney Athletic in a Cardiff & District Football League Division 1 clash. The violence erupted outside the changing rooms at Eastern Leisure Centre in Llanrumney after the game on Saturday afternoon.
Reports indicate that after the final whistle blew, the referee issued three red cards and two yellow cards during the match. Avenue Hotspur released a statement expressing that several players were assaulted as they exited the changing rooms, deeming the attack as “distressing” and “frightening.” Joel Collins, who suffered a broken knee in the brutal attack, remains in high spirits and has undergone surgery for his injuries. Llanrumney Athletic also condemned the violence in a separate statement, clarifying that their players and coaching staff were not involved.
Police are actively investigating the incident, describing the attackers as individuals wearing face coverings and carrying weapons. Additionally, damage to a vehicle was reported at the scene. No arrests have been made yet. Avenue Hotspur issued a statement strongly denouncing the violence and expressing confidence in the police’s efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice. The club emphasised their commitment to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all members and stated their intention to resume playing in the near future.
Llanrumney Athletic extended well wishes to those injured in the attack and emphasised that football matches should not result in such alarming incidents. The club assured cooperation with ongoing investigations and pledged to take appropriate action should any involvement by their personnel come to light. South Wales Police issued a statement condemning the violent disorder and urging witnesses to come forward with information. They highlighted the gravity of the situation and stressed a zero-tolerance policy towards such acts of violence.
The community has been left shocked by the incident, and authorities are urging anyone with information or footage related to the attack to contact South Wales Police or Crimestoppers anonymously. As investigations continue, both football clubs involved are focusing on supporting those affected and ensuring the safety of their members. The incident underscores the need for vigilance and solidarity within the football community to prevent such tragic events from occurring in the future.