22-04-2025
Poo-dunnit? Investigation launched after football ref found faeces left in his shoe when he gave controversial penalty - and abandoned the match for his own safety
A grassroots football match had to be abandoned after a referee found poo in his shoe at half-time.
The disgusting incident took place on Easter Saturday in the game between Old Malton St Mary's and Malt Shovel in the York Football League Premier Division.
Hosts Old Malton had scored an early goal through a controversial penalty, before table-topping Shovel had hit back to take a 2-1 lead into the interval.
However, during the break, the referee discovered somebody had been into his changing room and defecated in one of his black Nike trainers.
Although the culprit was not identified, the official promptly called the match off citing fears for his own safety.
Mail Sport understands the North Riding Football Association, who oversee the York League, are now investigating the matter before deciding what sanctions to take.
Clubs could be fined or docked points if they or their supporters are found to have been involved in the vile act.
On Saturday, Old Malton posted on their Facebook page that the match had been abandoned at half-time 'due to an off-field incident'.
However, Adam Newell, who helps look after the Malton ground, offered more of an explanation on X, when he wrote: 'Well in all my days being involved with football I am mind blown as to the actions of some individuals.
'Our match was abandoned at half-time as when the ref went into his changing rooms someone had (poo emoji) in his trainers. I seriously wonder the mentality of people.'
A TikTok video showing highlights of the match, as well as a picture of the poo in the shoe, has been viewed more than 2.6million times.
A North Riding FA spokesperson told Mail Sport: 'North Riding FA were made aware of an incident that took place on Saturday and the referee was immediately offered support by our Referee Development Officer, as well as receiving support from league officials.
'The matter is currently being investigated by the discipline teams at North Riding FA and West Riding FA and no further comment can be made until this investigation is concluded.'
