Non-league match abandoned after fans and players brawl

A non-league football match was abandoned after a fight between fans and players in the second half.

Fighting broke out behind one goal during the end of the Northern Premier League game between Avro, who are based in Oldham, and Kidsgrove Athletic on Saturday afternoon.

The match was stopped in the 84th minute with Avro leading 6-0 against nine-man Kidsgrove. In video footage, a player stood close to a goal appears to hit a fan.

Avro said it was "appalled" by the incident. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said it was investigating but no arrests have been made.

The brawl broke out following arguments in the stands and footage, shared across social media, showed Kidsgrove players abandon the game as they became involved.

One player was seen jumping over hoardings to get into the stands.

A GMP spokesman said officers "are currently investigating the circumstances".

The incident has also been reported to the Football Association.

In a statement, Avro said: "We as a club are appalled with the behaviour of some of the fans, players and officials of Kidsgrove Athletic."

It added: "The incident followed the dismissal of one of the Kidsgrove management team who wasn't on the field of play."

Staffordshire-based Kidsgrove Athletic also said in a statement: "As a club, we do not condone any form of inappropriate behaviour. We remain committed to upholding the values of respect and sportsmanship both on and off the pitch.

"No further statement will be made until the investigation is complete."