Former Mansfield Town player appears to punch fan after National League clash between York and Rochdale
Greater Manchester Police are investigating a video of an incident which appeared to show former Mansfield Town player Hiram Boateng assault a fan following the National League clash between York and Rochdale.
A spokesman from Greater Manchester Police said: “We are aware of a video that is circulating of a possible assault involving a player and we have linked in with both clubs and the National League.
“We will be further assessing the video and reviewing CCTV of the incident.”
A statement on the York City FC Facebook page said: “York City Football Club would like to make the following comment regarding one of our players in the aftermath of our last-minute goal at Rochdale.
“The ending to Saturday’s game at Rochdale has, understandably, been seen around the world and held up as an example of what is so special about our game. The fans played a huge part in that, and for all those in the stadium, it was a unique emotional rollercoaster that will never be forgotten.
“Given that emotion and the stakes involved, we appreciate the enormous challenges that came with policing and securing a game of such obvious importance. In front of a passionate, sell-out crowd, those challenges became even more significant when the game concluded in the way that it did.
“The safety of players, staff, officials, and fans must always be the priority, and it is important to recognise all those in the stadium who worked to ensure that was the case.
“It will be important in the coming days for there to be a proper reflection and assessment of the circumstances around the end of the game, what happened and what can be learned. As a club, we are committed to assisting with any review, and we will support all our players and staff in contributing to this.
“YCFC will be supporting Hiram through all proceedings.”
Four men have been charged following reports of an incident at the end of the Rochdale AFC v York City.
They have all been bailed, due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates on August 18.
One man was arrested and de-arrested at the scene.
A spokesman from Rochdale Football Club said: “Rochdale Football Club is aware of a video circulating on social media during Saturday’s game at the Crown Oil Arena.
“This is a police matter and the club will be making no further comment at this time.”