The Essex FA has launched an investigation after a Clacton Sunday League player chased an opponent out of the ground with a metal pipe.

Referee Ken Randall had little option but to abandon the Arthur Vincent Cup tie between Thorpe Sports and Brightlingsea-based Merrydowners.

Spectators watched as former Clacton Town and Brightlingsea United player Kenny Vincent left the pitch after he himself was injured in an off-the-ball incident.

He returned with the piece of pipe which was lying near the changing rooms and chased after an opponent until he left the North Road ground in Brightlingsea.

"It was quite frightening and the ref was shaking in the changing room afterwards," said a witness.

"He was left with no option but to abandon the match with about five to ten minutes left."

Vincent confirmed what had happened at the match on Sunday and said he regretted it.

"I had been struck in the face in an off-the-ball incident and just saw red," he said.

"I have apologised to Thorpe Sports for what happened but you cannot go back. It happened and I regret it and will now leave it to the FA."

Mick Willmore, secretary of Thorpe Sports, said Vincent had contacted him to apologise.

"He has told me he was dazed and almost unconscious following the off-the-ball clash but that cannot excuse what happened afterwards," he said.

"Kenny is very sorry. However he did sustain quite a nasty injury to his face."

Mr Willmore said Thorpe Sports would now have to wait for a copy of the referee's report.

Dennis Bloomfield, Secretary of the Clacton Sunday League, said this week the matter had been reported to the Essex FA which would be carrying out a full investigation.

"The referee has made an official report to the FA and it will be up to them to deal with it," he said.

"We have a management committee meeting on Friday and although it is not on the agenda it may be the incident will be discussed."

The Merrydowners player involved in the incident was unhurt. This Is Essex has been unable to contact him.

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