A football match had to be abandoned after just 15 minutes because of drunken yobs.

The louts caused trouble on the sidelines of a Rochester league match on Saturday afternoon, forcing the referee to stop play.

Terry Lawrence, secretary of the Rochester and District Football League, explained that the drunks were not connected with the teams.

He said:“They were nothing to do with either team. But the referee had no option. He took off both sets of players and the police were called.

“It’s a real shame and a sad comment on society.”

The Division 3 game, which was cancelled with a 0-0 score, was between Southern Belle and Walderslade.

It was at Southern Belle’s base at Newington Recreation Ground. Officials from both teams who had been at the match were not available for comment.

Mr Lawrence yesterday also declined to comment further but added: “We believe that the appropriate action has been taken.”

Referee John Whiskin: “There were two men drinking cider who were being abusive to the home side goalkeeper and wouldn’t leave after they were asked to. He was very shaken up.

“We had to call in the police who made them go. I couldn’t guarantee the safety of the players so abandoned the game.”