Girl injured after £1 coin thrown at football match

The girl needed hospital treatment after being struck on the forehead

An 11-year-old football fan could be “scarred for life” after being hit by a £1 coin during a match.

The girl was struck in the forehead on Saturday during Coventry City’s 1-1 home draw against Norwich City in the Championship.

The child’s father, a Coventry City season ticket holder, said the coin's trajectory suggested it was "thrown by a supporter in the away end of the stadium".

West Midlands Police said it was investigating the incident but that no arrests had been made.

The coin was allegedly thrown when Coventry fans celebrated Norwich scoring a decisive own goal in the 88th minute of the match.

It struck the girl above her right eye causing a cut which later needed hospital treatment.

Norwich City's Ben Gibson scored an own goal in the 88th minute of the match, levelling the game

The girl's father, Martin, 52 and from near Leamington Spa said: "My daughter remained sat down as we celebrated.

"My wife pulled my arm, I turned around and blood was running down my daughter’s face.

"In this day and age I’m surprised something like this would happen. I’m sickened."

Martin said he spoke to a nearby police officer about the incident before leaving the game so his daughter could get medical attention.

Coventry City FC say there are no restrictions on fans who choose to sit outside of the family zone

"I’m rattled by it. I keep thinking about what if it happens again. I’m not sure I want to go to future games,” Martin added.

A Coventry City FC spokesperson said: “We condemn the actions of any supporter whose actions bring harm to others.

"While the Family Zone, which is now sold-out, is our recommended areas for families, there are no restrictions placed on fans who choose to sit in other available areas of the arena and should be able to do so safely.

"Block 4 and 5 were opened on Saturday morning for supporters to purchase in, due to there being very limited availability in other general admission areas for the game."

West Midlands Police said four people, including a 14-year-old boy, were arrested following disorder at Saturday’s match.

Offences included affray and a racially aggravated public order offence.

Sgt Lizzie Lewandowski, a football unit supervisor for West Midlands Police said: "We are in the early stages of our investigations and we would urge anyone who may have witnessed the incidents to please get in touch."

Norwich City Football Club has been approached for comment.

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