A non-league clash was inexplicably abandoned at half-time after players were involved in a what’s been called an ‘incident’ inside the tunnel
A non-league clash was abandoned at half-time after players were involved in an ‘incident’ in the tunnel.
The Step 4 match between Littlehampton Town and Hayes & Yeading United in the Isthmian League South Central Division failed to resume for the second half. The two sides entered the break with Hayes & Yeading 2-1 up.
The hosts went a goal down after 12 minutes before equalising eight minutes later, only for the visitors to retake the lead in the 34th minute. Details of what occurred after the half-time whistle are sparse, with both clubs posting vague announcements on their respective social media that the game would not resume.
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A statement from Littlehampton said: “Today’s game against Hayes & Yeading was abandoned by the referee at half-time following an incident between both sets of players in the tunnel. We are in discussion with the league and will update in due course.”
A post from Hayes & Yeading on social media simply said: “Match abandoned at half time.”
Neither club nor the league have posted any updates on the incident or the situation regarding the outcome of the result and a potential rearrangement at the time of writing.
With the final gameweek of the season being played next week, it’s likely that any rearranged fixture will have to take place in midweek given that Littlehampton are in the relegation zone.
Playing after the final day when their relegation rivals Hendon, Binfield and Ascot United have played and completed their season would give Littlehampton a sporting advantage.
Littlehampton are four points off safety in the final relegation spot and also have a massive goal difference deficit against them. Defeat against Hayes & Yeading would have relegated the club before the final game of the campaign.
Fareham Town, Horndean and Metropolitan Police are all confirmed to be relegated, with the latter’s drop to Step 5 sealed after a 3-1 home loss to Fareham.
Meanwhile, the visitors are 10th in the table but cannot finish in a play-off spot. However, United could finish as high as 6th – one place below the play-offs.
Next Saturday’s fixtures see Littlehampton head to Horndean with their relegation fate potentially sealed by the time they travel to East Hampshire.
Hendon entertain 7th place Egham Town, Binfield head to mid table Bognor Regis Town while Ascot welcome Met Police.