Man arrested as video of sickening elbow during football match goes viral

A man has been arrested on suspicion of assault after a shocking incident saw a footballer brutally elbow an opponent during a match in Wales.

Police launched an investigation after footage posted online showed an altercation during the clash between Porthmadog and Trearddur Bay in the Ardal North West League.

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Trearddur’s Tom Taylor elbowed an opposition player in the face as a penalty was about to be taken.

Taylor has been released by the club following the incident.

Meanwhile, North Wales Police have confirmed a 35-year-old man has been arrested.

A statement from the force read: “North Wales Police are aware of a video circulating online relating to an incident that occurred at a football match between Treaddur Bay FC and Porthmadog FC on Saturday (17 January)

“Officers have been making enquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. As part of this investigation a 35-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault. He remains in police custody at this time.

“Enquiries are ongoing and we would ask members of the public not to speculate whilst the investigation continues.

“Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact police through 101 quoting 26000046180.”

The video of the sickening elbow quickly went viral after being shared online.

Porthmadog’s Rhys Alun saw his penalty saved by goalkeeper Paul Pritchard following the apparent elbow, according to the club’s X account.

In a statement released before Taylor’s release was confirmed, Trearddur Bay said: “Trearddur Bay FC wish to confirm that it has suspended Tom Taylor from immediate effect following an incident between TBFC and Porthmadog FC yesterday.

Trearddur Bay Football Club

“As the matter is subject to a police investigation the club will not be making any further comment at this stage.

“The club in no way condones the use of unlawful behaviour by its staff or players.”

A separate statement from the FAW read: “Tier three matches fall under the jurisdiction of the FAW. The FAW is aware of the incident and will be reviewing.”

Referee Gwyn Edwards did not show a red card during the encounter, according to the match data.

However, Taylor was booked in the 60th minute following the home side’s penalty miss.

The 34-year-old defender had been at Trearddur Bay since September 2024 having signed from English non-league side Halesowen.

Taylor has also had spells at Bromsgrove Sporting and Stourbridge in the Southern League Premier Division Central.

Porthmadog went on to win Saturday’s match 3-2 at The Beach Stadium.

It is a result which leaves them second in the table, three points behind leaders Bangor City 1876.

Trearddur Bay are three places back in fifth following the away defeat.