Charity football match abandoned following brawl

A charity football match in Shropshire was abandoned after violence erupted and it descended into a brawl. Seven players were ordered to leave the pitch in Wem last night.

The disturbance happened during the second Powell Cup semi-final between Shawbury United Football Club and Shrewsbury Sunday League champions Instones.

The game on Bowens Field was abandoned 18 minutes into the second half. An investigation has been launched and the FA notified.

Sunday League side Instones had five players sent off. Secretary of the club, Charlie Jones, said: "I think it was just a bad reaction to a tackle that should never have happened.

"I don't think anyone knew what went on, really, it was just a melee."

Dave Richards, for Shawbury United, said: "After the tackle their supporters ran on the pitch and joined in.

"My boys were being kicked in the head on the floor and stamped on. No one was seriously injured. For a charity game it is just disgraceful."

Dave Ralphs, secretary of the Powell Cup Committee, said they were holding an emergency meeting tonight.

He said: "We have three options. The result stands, there is a replay or Instones are eliminated because they couldn't finish the game."

Neil Sambrook, for Shropshire FA said: "We are aware of some misconduct but haven't received the report from the referee yet."