Police have initiated an investigation following an incident in which a goalkeeper seemingly pushed a ball boy to the ground.
This unsettling event took place during Cliftonville`s 3-0 victory against Carrick Rangers on Saturday.
In the first half of the Northern Irish Premiership match, Carrick goalkeeper Jack McIntyre went to retrieve the ball for a goal kick.
However, he appeared to engage in a confrontation with the ball boy, who subsequently fell to the ground.
The home crowd responded with loud boos, but the referee did not issue a booking to McIntyre.
Northern Irish police stated that “enquiries are ongoing” and confirmed they “received a report of an assault at the football match.”
The Irish Football Association has acknowledged being “aware of the incident.”
They further stated: “Should the matter be formally referred to the Disciplinary Committee, standard disciplinary procedures will be enacted in accordance with established protocols.”
Carrick Rangers manager Stephen Baxter claimed he did not witness the incident when questioned after the game, commenting: “I honestly didn`t see it, I heard the crowd noise, but I didn`t see any push, so I have no comment.”
Cliftonville manager Jim Magilton remarked: “If he did that, then he is fortunate, and only he will know.
“I haven`t reviewed it yet, so I can`t comment, but if he made contact with the ball boy and that violates the rules, then he was fortunate to avoid being sent off.
“You will have to inquire with Jack McIntyre as to whether he made physical contact with the boy or not.”
McIntyre, aged 22, was previously associated with Manchester City, Everton, and Sunderland during his youth career but never made a senior team appearance.
