TWO Worcestershire football clubs are facing disciplinary action after their game was abandoned when players clashed.

Trouble flared during the McDonald’s Worcester and District League Sunday Division Five match between Riverside and Leigh and Bransford Badgers at Pitchcroft.

A player from each side was sent off with 11 minutes remaining, after which it is alleged that Leigh and Bransford refused to play on, bringing a halt to the match, which Riverside were leading 3-0.

Both teams are set to be charged with failing to control their players and will have their cases heard together in due course.

The clubs could be given warnings as to their future conduct but could also face financial penalties.

Worcestershire Football Association disciplinary manager Chris Dale said: “In this instance both teams will be charged under FA rule E20 which is failing to control their players which is standard when there is a mass confrontation situation.”

League secretary Tim Phillips said: “I have received the referee’s report and I am awaiting an explanation from Leigh and Bransford which will be discussed at our league management committee meeting.”

The match was one of three to be called off at the weekend, with the Division Three game between GDL Athletic and Colwall Village abandoned after 81 minutes due to a back injury sustained by Colwall goalkeeper Ryan Clarke.

In the Bromsgrove League, Golden Lion Athletic Reserves and Studley Road Social were unable to play their Division Two fixture due to the referee having his car stolen and being unable to get to the game.

The sides ended up contesting a friendly, which the visitors won 7-2, but the league game will be replayed.

Meanwhile, a player charged by the Worcestershire FA with assaulting a referee in a Worcester League match last month has pleaded guilty.

Joe Spencer attacked Richard Walker after being sent off playing for Arrow 2000 against Welland in the WFA Minor Cup first round.

The incident forced the match to be abandoned with just a minute to go with Welland leading 5-3.

Spencer’s case will be heard by the County FA in the next seven days.