Welsh football team 'violently attacked with baseball bats' after leaving changing room
A Welsh football team were 'attacked with baseball bats' as they left the changing rooms after a match.
It left one player with 'life-changing injuries' after his knee was broken following the violent assault.
Joel Collins was rushed to hospital after the incident which happened on October 12 at Eastern Leisure Centre in Llanrumney.
Avenue Hotspur had lost 3-1 Llanrumney Athletic in a match in Division 1 of the Cardiff & District Football League before the assault.
Avenue Hotspur players were attacked as they left the changing room
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The FAW report that the match saw three red cards and two yellow cards following the final whistle.
Avenue Hotspur made a statement after the game to describe shocking scenes as players were ambushed as they left the changing rooms.
Llanrumney Athletic also made their own statement 'strongly' condemning the attack before adding: "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."
Detective Inspector Daniel Todd of South Wales Police said: “The level of violence was appalling and will not be tolerated.
“This incident has understandably shocked the community, and it must have been very frightening for all involved.
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“We are grateful for information received so far and would appeal for any witnesses to please come forward.”
A spokesperson for Avenue Hotspur said: "We strongly condemn the violence that occurred at the Eastern Leisure Centre on Saturday, October 12 and trust the the police will do all they can to bring those involved to justice.
"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.
One player had their knee broken and suffered 'life-changing injuries'
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"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.
"We are relieved to report that Joel Collins is in good spirits and is currently undergoing surgery to repair a broken knee.
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— Avenue Hotspur Football Club (@avenuehotspurfc) October 13, 2024
"In the meantime I would like to thank the wider football community in Wales for their messages of comfort and support at this difficult time for everyone at Avenue Hotspur FC.
"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."