Police investigate after violent scenes at football match in Oldham

The match in Oldham was abandoned after the mass brawl erupted in front of children

Police are now investigating a violent brawl that broke out between fans and players at a non-league game in Oldham on Saturday (October 18).

The shocking incident was caught on camera during the Northern Premier League fixture between Avro FC and Kidsgrove Athletic at the Vestacare Stadium on White Bank Road in Oldham.

In one of the clips, recorded during the 84th minute, two players appear to run into the crowd before one fan is dragged to the ground while surrounded by supporters, with others attempting to intervene.

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Various videos posted online appeared to show groups of both players and fans involved in the violent altercation in one of the stands as children and families watched on in horror.

Greater Manchester Police has confirmed its officers are now investigating the incident and that no arrests have been made. It is not yet known what started the violent brawl.

A spokesperson for the force said: "We are aware of an incident at a football match in the Oldham area yesterday, and are currently investigating the circumstances. No arrests have been made."

The Football Association and Northern Premier League are said to also be investigating the incident.

On Saturday, Kidsgrove Athletic FC - based in North Staffordshire - issued a club statement after Avro FC earlier said it was "appalled with the behaviour of some fans, players and officials of Kidgsrove Athletic".

The Oldham club posted on X: "Today's game between Avro and Kidsgrove was abandoned in the 84th minute. We as a club are appalled with the behaviour of some fans, players and officials of Kidgsrove Athletic. We will support and cooperate with both the NPL and FA in their investigation of the incidents which occurred in the 84th minute of today's game.

"Avro were leading 6-0 at the time of the event against Kidsgrove nine men due to two players earlier being shown red cards on the field of play. We will await the reports of the referee and FA. No further comment will be made by ourselves on this matter."

Kidsgrove then responded, and posted on its social media pages: "Following the abandonment of today's fixture between Avro FC and Kidsgrove Athletic, we are aware of the statement released by Avro FC. Kidgsrove Atheltic will be submitting a full report to the Northern Premier League and The FA regarding the events that took place.

"We will fully cooperate with any investigation and await the findings before making any further comment. As a club, we do not condone any form of inappropriate behaviour.

"We remain committed to upholding the values of respect and sportsmanship both on and off the pitch. No further statement will be made until the investigation is complete."

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