Police investigate Bielik fan clash at Portsmouth
Police are investigating an incident between Cardiff defender Krystian Bielik and a Portsmouth supporter during Pompey's 2-0 home win on Saturday.
Cardiff defender Krystian Bielik is under investigation by police following an altercation with a Portsmouth fan during Saturday's Championship match at Fratton Park. Bielik was involved in a physical fight with a supporter as he attempted to retrieve a ball from the crowd in the second half. Cardiff head coach Brian Barry-Murphy stated Bielik was slapped in the face, while footage on social media showed the Poland international grabbing a young fan around his upper body.
Hampshire Police confirmed they are investigating an alleged assault, with their inquiry into the incident ongoing. Several Portsmouth supporters were seen making gestures suggesting the young fan had been grabbed by the throat. Another fan threw a ball at Cardiff defender Perry Ng, and both the supporter and the defender were removed from the stadium.
Following the match, Portsmouth head coach John Mousinho apologized to Cardiff's players for the incident involving the young fan. The club emphasized that safeguarding young people is of paramount importance and urged caution against speculation while the matter is under investigation by both the club and the police.
The Football Association is aware of the situation and will review the details in the match report before determining if any action should be taken. Cardiff City expressed satisfaction with the match officials' handling of the situation and reiterated that player protection is a top priority.
Written by urgent.news from BBC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
- Police investigate Bielik fan clash at Portsmouth sports.yahoo.com
- Police investigate Bielik fan clash at Portsmouth bbc.co.uk