Football team beaten by baseball bat-wielding thugs and player has kneecap smashed in ‘violent and distressing attack’
A WELSH football team have been shockingly attacked by thugs with baseball bats on their way home from a match.
Several players sustained injuries, with goalkeeper Josh Collins having his knee broken.
The horror incident occurred at the Eastern Leisure Centre in Llanrumney on Saturday.
Avenue Hotspur lost 3-1 to Llanrumney Athletic in Division One of the Cardiff and District Football League.
Three red cards and two yellows were brandished by the referee after the final whistle.
Then as the Hotspur players left the venue, the squad were attacked by bat-wielding thugs.
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Collins has sustained "life-changing" injuries and some of his team-mates were also hurt.
The 32-year-old is said to be in "good spirits" despite the injury and has undergone surgery.
A vehicle was also damaged by the group of masked men.
Cops have launched an investigation but no arrests have been made yet.
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A statement from Avenue Hotspur said what happened was "distressing" and "frightening".
It read: "We trust the the police will do all they can to bring those involved to justice.
"This shocking incident, in which several players were violently attacked as they left the changing rooms, is completely unacceptable and was a really distressing and frightening experience for everyone involved.
"We are fully cooperating with the police and the South Wales Football Association in their investigations, and our primary at present is focused on supporting all those affected at this time.
"In the meantime I would like to thank the wider football community in Wales for their messages of comfort and support at this difficult time for everyone at Avenue Hotspur FC.
"As a family focused community football club proud to represent the Ely Community we are committed to providing a fun filled, safe and inclusive environment for all and are hoping to return to playing in the next few weeks."
A statement from Llanrumney Athletic read: "We would firstly like to wish anyone injured in the incident a speedy recovery.
"We were here for football and no one should ever have to worry about whether they will make it to work the next day following a game of football.
"We strongly condemn the actions of the individuals involved in this incident.
"To the club's knowledge, no players or coaching staff were involved in this incident and should any information come to light to contradict this, they will be dealt with accordingly.
"Llanrumney Athletic is cooperating with all ongoing enquiries."
Detective Inspector Daniel Todd said: “The level of violence was appalling and will not be tolerated.
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"This incident has understandably shocked the community, and it must have been very frightening for all involved.
"We are grateful for information received so far and would appeal for any witnesses to please come forward."