The grassroots football match between Old Malton St Mary’s and Malt Shovel saw a feisty first-half which had the latter leading 2-1 at the break.
Old Malton had led through a controversial penalty decision, before Malt Shovel had come from behind to establish their lead.
However, the match was promptly abandoned after the referee discovered poo in one his black Nike trainers at half-time, calling the game off due to fears over his own safety.
The culprit has not yet been identified, but The Press understands that the North Riding Football Association is investigating the offence.
If found guilty, either club could be fined or docked points if it is discovered that they had been involved.
The match was also shown with highlights on the social media platform TikTok, which also included a picture of the poo in the shoe, with the video now being viewed more than three million times.
The North Riding FA told the Press: “North Riding FA were made aware of an incident that took place on Saturday and the referee was immediately offered support by our Referee Development Officer, as well as receiving support from league officials.
“The matter is currently being investigated by the discipline teams at North Riding FA and West Riding FA and no further comment can be made until this investigation is concluded.”
Adam Newell, a groundsman for Old Malton, wrote on social media platform X: “Well in all my days being involved with football I am mind blown as to the actions of some individuals.
“Our match was abandoned at halftime time as when the ref went into his changing rooms someone had [poo emoji] in his trainers.
“I seriously wonder the mentality of people.”
Well in all my days being involved with football I am mind blown as to the actions of some individuals 🤯 Our match was abandoned at halftime time as when the ref went into his changing rooms someone had 💩 in his trainers 🤯 I seriously wonder the mentality of people 🤯 pic.twitter.com/tPqjApEh4f
— Adam Newell (@LMNorthYorks) April 19, 2025
