Teenage referee assaulted at Dromore soccer match

  • Published

A teenage referee has been assaulted during a soccer match in Dromore, County Tyrone.

It happened during a Fermanagh and Western League Division One game at Crawford's Lane on the Omagh Road on Saturday.

The 19-year-old was assaulted by a player during the match between Tummery Athletic and Irvinestown Wanderers.

He suffered bruising to his face and leg. A police investigation is continuing.

The teenager is a qualified referee with the IFA, and referees within the Fermanagh and Western leagues.

In a statement, the Irish Football Association (IFA) said it had been made "aware of the situation".

"We strongly condemn any violence associated with football in Northern Ireland," the statement said.

"Referees are a vital part of our game and indeed are required for our games to flourish and prosper.

"This matter is now in the hands of the police."