A FOOTBALL match at Tavistock's Langsford Park last Tuesday turned into 'total carnage', when a fight broke out resulting in a linesman being taken to hospital. The U15 match between Plymouth Schools and Blackheath Schools in London was held at the town's football ground for the semi-final of the English School Football Association FA trophy. The incident took place minutes before the final whistle of extra time when Plymouth scored its second goal, making the result 2-1 — a result which sparked dispute. An eye witness said: 'It all kicked off at the end, as the London team didn't agree with the last goal, as they said it was out of play. Parents then came onto the pitch and protested. 'Someone shoved the linesman and he hit his head against the railings — there was even a fight in the car park. It was total carnage.' Several witnesses suggested a member of the crowd deliberately pulled the ball back into the crowd, away from a Blackheath player who was trying to retrieve it. It is thought a comment was made leading to a scuffle on the touchline. Those in charge tried to restore order, but scuffles continued in the nearby car park when the referee stopped the match. The Plymouth players quickly left the club to prevent the situation flaring up again. A car in the car park was damaged and one player from each team was taken to Derriford Hospital, Plymouth for a check up. A player from Blackheath had a suspected neck injury and a Plymouth player had an injured jaw — several players had minor abrasions. Police were called to Langsford Park just before 9.20pm and then assisted the Blackheath players to leave. The officials for the match and the staff in charge of the teams have all assisted fully in the enquiries made to date by the police. No arrests were made. Tavistock Sgt Dave Anning said: 'This is a sporting event that got out of hand. 'We have no wish to involve a group of talented 15- year old youths with the criminal justice system unless it is both necessary and appropriate. 'Perhaps the most worrying aspect of the whole incident is the suggestion that it may have been sparked by a racist comment from a spectator. 'To date no-one has been able to tell us what was said, but the implication that it was a racist comment has been clear. 'We would be very interested to hear from anyone who heard what was said and by whom.'
