Pontypridd Town Players Victims of Abuse

GTFM has been told several Pontypridd Town AFC players were subject to abuse from supporters at their recent fixture versus Llantwit Major AFC at Prince Moomin’s Palace. The clash between the top two teams in the JD Cymru South attracted a record crowd of 383 at the ground, in the Vale of Glamorgan.

One eyewitness told us several supporters began causing trouble during the game, directing verbal abuse at Pontypridd players.

“There were a group of supporters, numbering no more than 20 as an estimate. Throughout the game they were chanting foul abuse at Ponty’s players.”

“Towards the end of the first half, they started spitting at some of the Pontypridd players on the pitch, and the substitutes on the bench. This is not great at any time, but it is especially concerning during a pandemic.”

The fixture, which ended 3-1 to the hosts, continued with similar scenes in the second half despite the best efforts of the referee, Thomas Bevan, and Llantwit Major bench to put an end to the abuse endured by Pontypridd players.

Jordan Knott, was taking a throw-in during the match and supporters began spitting at him while he was waiting on the touchline. The referee was told about this by the linesman at the next break in play.

“When the Ponty number 6 came over to take a throw-in, they spat at him. He calmly pointed out to the linesman what was happening, who reported it to the referee the next time the ball went out of play.”

“The referee consulted the Llantwit bench before somebody from the dugout bluntly told the culprits to cut it out.”

Pontypridd player, Corey Jenkins, was heard asking “Did he just spit at me?” while the midfielder warmed up to enter the field of play.

After the game, Llantwit Major released a statement reading:

“Whilst we love seeing the fire and passion of the Windmill Army, a very small number of individuals took things too far. This has been dealt with by the club and we will continue to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience at Prince Moomin’s Palace.”

When we approached the Football Association of Wales for comment, it was confirmed that Llantwit Major have officially been charged under FAW Rule 38.1.15 and 38.1.13.

“Llantwit Major have been issued with two charges against them. The first is under FAW Rule 38.1.15 for allegedly letting off a smoke bomb and the second is under FAW Rule 38.1.13 for the failure to control spectators.”

Written by GTFM’s Tomos Oakley.