Welling United v Potters Bar Abandoned After Serious Pre-Match Incident
Welling United’s Isthmian League Premier Division fixture against Potters Bar Town was postponed less than an hour before kick-off on Saturday following a serious incident at Park View Road.
It has emerged that the abandonment followed an altercation involving Welling United manager Ryan Maxwell and Potters Bar Town manager Sammy Moore.
According to information circulating within the game, the confrontation stemmed from the recent transfer of Femi Akinwande from Welling United to Potters Bar Town. It is understood the move was agreed on the condition that the player would not feature in Saturday’s fixture. When Akinwande was subsequently named on the Potters Bar teamsheet, Maxwell reportedly sought out Moore prior to kick-off.
During that confrontation, Moore was injured and required medical treatment. The match was immediately called off.
Welling United released a brief statement shortly after the postponement:
“Today’s fixture against Potters Bar Town has been postponed. The club will be making no further comment at this time. Further news regarding the rearranged fixture will be communicated in due course.”
As speculation spread online, Potters Bar Town issued a more detailed statement on Saturday evening:
“Today’s scheduled fixture at Welling United was abandoned prior to kick-off following a serious incident involving a member of our management team.”
“Police attended the ground and, following their involvement, the match was unable to proceed. Our manager is receiving appropriate medical care and the club is supporting him fully.”
“The matter has been referred to the relevant authorities, including the league and The FA, and we are seeking formal advice. As this is now subject to ongoing processes, the club will not be making any further comment at this time.”
“We thank supporters for their understanding.”
Potters Bar Town are managed by Sammy Moore, a well-known figure in Kent football.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed they were alerted to an incident at 13:18 GMT.
A police spokesperson told BBC Sport:
“Police were called to Welling Football Club following reports of an altercation between two men.”
“Officers attended and found a 38-year-old man with injuries to his face.”
“A 42-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm. He remains in custody.”
The incident has been referred to the relevant football authorities, with further developments expected in the coming days.
Welling United’s next scheduled fixture is away at Lewes on Saturday 20 December, although clarity over this weekend’s situation — and any potential disciplinary action — is still awaited.