Oakley keeper faces ban after red card for fighting fans

Ross Wortley cited to appear before junior league officials

A junior football player could be facing the prospect of a hefty ban after he was sent off for brawling with his club’s own fans at the weekend.

Oakley United goalkeeper Ross Wortley, 42, was shown the red card after apparently scuffling with supporters during the Fife club’s East of Scotland Cup second round tie with Tranent Juniors at Oakley’s Blairwood Park.

The score had been 2-1 to the visitors at the time, and Tranent went on to make their advantage count by running out 5-1 winners.

The Scottish Junior Football Association (SJFA) has confirmed an investigation has been launched, with the player cited to appear before the East Region Committee.

The match official will be consulted as part of the probe, while evidence from club officials on either side will also be taken into account.

Police Scotland confirmed it had received no formal report and officers would not take any action.

However, the East Region’s disciplinary committee typically meet on a Tuesday where the matter is expected to be discussed – although it is not yet known if Wortley has been cited to appear at this week’s proceedings.

Tranent Juniors’ official Facebook page recounted one eyewitness’s view of what happened as part of their match report.

“Half time entertainment was provided by the Oakley GK and four of the home support who looked to have had a few sherbets, when the GK – who was subjected to verbal abuse by these screwballs the whole half – jumped the barrier and waded into the four of them.

“Head butts, upper cuts and kung-fu kicks were on the menu all witnessed by players, supporters, including many children, and referee.”

The match report also noted that the Oakley keeper had, in reporter Hamish Colgan’s opinion, been “unfairly treated” in this instance due to the abuse he had been subjected to throughout the game.

Oakley goalscorer Lee Halpin was also sent off, for a dangerous challenge late in the game, and he too will expect a ban.