Norwich: FA Investigate Parents Brawl At U13s Football Match

27 November 2013, 15:15 | Updated: 27 November 2013, 15:19

Police had to be called to an under-13s football match in Norwich after reports of a heated dispute.

A spectator called officers as emotions ran high during the match between Thorpe Rovers under-13s and Sprowston under-13s.

By the time police arrived at the Fitzmaurice Pavillion in Thorpe St Andrew, the confrontation had died down but Norfolk FA is now investigating the incident.

Witnesses, who were concerned about the example adults were setting for youngsters, said there had been a disagreement between the two managers over a tackle on the pitch.

Some supporters became involved in a "heated'' dispute over whether the tackle warranted a red card.

A Norfolk Police spokeswoman said: "We were called to reports of a man assaulting another man.

"When we arrived there was no evidence of any injury and no medical attention was needed.

"No formal complaint was made by any party so no further action was taken.''

A spokesman for Norfolk FA said it was aware of the alleged incident and would be investigating "in line with FA regulations''.

"Whilst we cannot comment further on ongoing investigations, we can reiterate that improving standards of behaviour across all levels of the game is a key feature of both the FA's and Norfolk County FA's continuing work,'' he added.

"The principles of the FA's Respect programme, which reaches out to all those involved in grassroots football to set a positive example and improve conduct on the sidelines, is interwoven into our work within youth football.''

The spokesman said work was regularly carried out to encourage coaches, players and parents to behave in a respectful manner.