An investigation has been launched into Isle of Wight Division 1 football club High Park following the abandonment of their game against Northwood St Johns on Saturday due to alleged violent conduct. The game – played at Cowes Community Club on 16th December – was abandoned at the half-time interval following a mass brawl between the 2 sides that ended with a blood-splattered dressing room. 2 Northwood players suffered blows as well as the team’s manager, it is claimed. 1 Northwood player received treatment at St Mary’s Hospital, but it is understood High Park players were not responsible for his injury. High Park have a poor disciplinary record to date. Their last game against Vectis saw 4 of their players sent off. It is believed the club has accumulated significant sums of money in fines already this season. Last season, the game between Whitecroft & Barton Reserves and High Park was abandoned in the 75th minute following another mass brawl involving players and spectators. This latest matter has been referred to the Isle of Wight and Hampshire Football Associations. On behalf of the Isle of Wight Divisional Football Association, Secretary Andrew Justice has said:
“I can confirm that the referee abandoned the game at half time between Northwood SJ FC and High Park FC on Saturday the 16th of December 2023 due to unacceptable conduct by High Park FC players. “The referee has submitted his report to the Hampshire FA as he is required so to do. The Hampshire FA deals with all discipline matters reported to them. “The League Management Committee (LMC) has been notified that the game was abandoned, and we will deal with that aspect once the HFA has dealt with the contents in the referee’s report and High Park FC advised. “The LMC is fully aware of the behaviour of the High Park FC players and any action that we decide will be notified to the club in the first instance as and when a decision is made.”
