At a Glance
- A 35-year-old Trearddur Bay player was arrested on suspicion of assault after video showed him elbowing an opponent during a third-tier Welsh match.
- The club suspended, then released the player “with immediate effect” following an internal review.
- The Football Association of Wales and North Wales Police investigations remain active.
- Why it matters: The swift arrest and dismissal highlight zero-tolerance policies for violence in amateur football.
A Welsh non-league match turned into a police matter after a Trearddur Bay player was filmed elbowing a Porthmadog FC opponent in the head, leading to an arrest and the player’s immediate release from the club.
The Incident
The clash occurred during Saturday’s third-tier fixture, a league mixing amateur and semi-professional sides. In a video that spread rapidly across social media, the Trearddur Bay player is seen striking Porthmadog’s Danny Brookwell in the chin with a forceful elbow during a break in play. Brookwell collapsed and later left the field with concussion, according to a Porthmadog statement cited by the BBC.
Police Response
North Wales Police confirmed a 35-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault.
> “Officers have been making enquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident,” the department said. “As part of this investigation a 35-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault.”
The suspect remained in custody while enquiries continued. Police urged the public not to speculate online.
Club Action
Trearddur Bay FC first suspended the player “from immediate effect,” noting it would not comment further while police investigated. After an Extraordinary General Meeting, the club announced it had released the player entirely.
> “Trearddur Bay Football Club does not condone violence in any form and acknowledges that the incident should not have occurred,” the club said, offering “sincere apologies to the opposition player involved, CPD Porthmadog, match officials, supporters, and the wider football community.”
The club pledged full cooperation with any external investigations.
Governing Body Review
The Football Association of Wales confirmed it is reviewing the matter, as tier-three matches fall under its jurisdiction.
Porthmadog emphasized Brookwell’s welfare, stating he is recovering at home after the concussion.
Marcus L. Bennett reported for News Of Los Angeles.
