Police investigating reported assault that left footballer hospitalised in West Sussex
Sussex Police are investigating a reported assault in West Sussex that left a footballer hospitalised.
It was reported on Saturday, October 31 that a cup tie between two West Sussex Football League teams was abandoned after an incident which left a player needing to go to hospital with serious mouth and jaw injuries.
Midhurst & Easebourne Community were playing a home Malcolm Simmonds Memorial Cup match at the Rotherfield against Emsworth Town when the flashpoint occurred around 15 minutes into the match.
Police and league officials have been involved as investigations continue – with the club saying they are doing all they can to support ‘one of our own’ at a ‘horrific’ time.
A Sussex Police spokesperson said: “Officers are investigating a report that on Saturday afternoon (31 October) at around 2.20pm, an altercation took place on the pitch at Midhurst Town football club in Dodsley Grove, Easebourne.
“It was reported that one player was assaulted, leading to him sustaining a serious injury and attending hospital for treatment.
“Enquiries to establish the circumstances remain underway. No arrests have been made at this time.
“As the investigation continues, we ask witnesses or anyone with relevant footage to contact police. You can do this online, or by calling 101 quoting reference 932 of 31/10.”
A South East Coast Ambulance Service spokesperson added: “South East Coast Ambulance Service was called to reports of a person in need of medical attention following an assault at the Rotherfield Sports Ground, Midhurst shortly after 14.30 on Saturday, 31 October 2026.
“An ambulance crew attended and one patient was assessed and treated before being taken to a local hospital for further treatment.”
Emsworth Town and the West Sussex Football League have been contacted for comment.