Shocking footage captures a disturbing incident where a spectator, overcome with anger, physically assaults an amateur referee during an under-7s football match.
The incident occurred during a match held at Lord Derby Pavilion in Merseyside on January 7th of this year, which was the home ground of AFC Knowsley.
Adam Sears, aged 29, unleashed a series of punches towards the referee following a substitution in the game. His aggressive behavior resulted in him being found guilty of assault by beating against the adult referee, as well as for using threatening, abusive, or insulting language towards a younger referee.
Following a trial at South Sefton Magistrates Court, Sears was sentenced on Tuesday. He received a 12-month community order, along with a requirement to complete 150 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, he was ordered to pay a substantial amount in compensation and cover legal costs. To prevent further incidents, he has been subjected to a restraining order, prohibiting him from contacting the victims involved.
