Cardiff, Wales – Two men faced charges of violent disorder in court following a brawl that broke out after an amateur football match. Benjamin Dean, 28, from Trowbridge, and Ryan Rees, 22, from Llanrumney, appeared at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court and denied the allegations on Wednesday. The incident occurred after a game between Avenue Hotspur and Llanrumney Athletic on Saturday, where Joel Collins, 32, sustained a severe leg injury requiring surgery.
During the court proceedings, Mr. Dean pleaded not guilty to actual bodily harm, while Mr. Rees denied charges of driving without insurance. It was also revealed that two additional suspects linked to the case had fled to Valencia, as per police reports. Both Mr. Dean and Mr. Rees were remanded in custody until their next court appearance at Cardiff Crown Court on 11 November.
Witnesses at the game recounted a group attacking Avenue Hotspur players as they were leaving the changing rooms at Eastern Leisure Centre in Llanrumney. The violent confrontation resulted in Mr. Collins sustaining a significant leg injury, described as life-changing, prompting a swift response from law enforcement officials. The court proceedings shed light on the severity of the situation and the ongoing investigation to locate the remaining suspects involved in the altercation.
The incident highlighted the risks associated with amateur sports events and the importance of addressing violence in such settings. The court’s decision to remand the two suspects in custody underscores the gravity of the charges they face and the need for a thorough examination of the events that transpired during the football match. As the case unfolds, authorities are working to ensure accountability and justice for all parties affected by the violent outburst, emphasizing the repercussions of such behavior in community sports.