A footballer has been arrested and released by his club after being caught apparently elbowing an opponent on camera, with police launching an investigation.
The video, taken on Saturday, appears to show Trearddur Bay player Tom Taylor targeting an unsuspecting Porthmadog player before a penalty, delivering a brutal elbow to his opponent’s jaw.
More than 10million people have watched the original video online, calling for Taylor to be banned – and some arrested – following the Ardal North West League match in Wales.
North Wales Police have confirmed that the matter is being investigated, and that Taylor has been arrested.
They posted on Facebook on Sunday: ‘North Wales Police are aware of a video circulating online relating to an incident that occurred at a football match between Treaddur Bay FC and Porthmadog FC on Saturday (17 January).
‘Officers have been making enquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. As part of this investigation a 35-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault. He remains in police custody at this time.
‘Enquiries are ongoing and we would ask members of the public not to speculate whilst the investigation continues. Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact police.’
Trearddur Bay acted swiftly to suspend Taylor, posting on social media on Sunday: ‘Trearddur Bay FC wish to confirm that it has suspended Tom Taylor from immediate effect following an incident between tbfc and Porthmadog fc yesterday.
‘As the matter is subject to a police investigation the club will not be making any further comment at this stage save that the club in no way condones the use of unlawful behaviour by its staff or players.’
They later revealed he had been released, adding: ‘Following an Extraordinary General Meeting of the clubs committee and completion of the clubs internal processes. Trearddur Bay Football Club provides an update regarding the on field incident vs Porthmadog FC.
‘Following an internal review, the decision was taken to release the suspended player involved with immediate effect.
‘Trearddur Bay Football Club does not condone violence in any form and acknowledges that the incident should not have occurred.
‘The club offers its sincere apologies to the opposition player involved, CPD Porthmadog, match officials, supporters, and the wider football community.
‘The club will fully cooperate with any external investigations or disciplinary processes and will make no further comment at this time while these matters are ongoing.’
The incident is said to have taken place in the 59th minute of the game, with the player who was elbowed, reportedly Danny Brookwell, fouled.
The Welsh FA said: ‘Tier three matches fall under the jurisdiction of the FAW. The FAW is aware of the incident and will be reviewing it.’
Fans on social media were left outraged, with one user, who shared the original video, writing: ‘ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTING FROM TREADDUR BAY. TOM TAYLOR SHOULD GET BANNED FOR LIFE DISGRACE!!!’
Another fan replied: ‘He should be jailed for that.’
A third wrote: ‘What a little rat! @FcTrearddur is this what you’re paying £3k a week for! Disgusting and proper scummy behaviour,’ accompanied by an angry face emoji.
