Goalkeeper concedes four goals, headbutts fan and is fired

At just 22 years old, the goalkeeper Lewis Patching he has certainly already written his name in the history of football. But in a bad way. Last weekend, the archer was signed on loan by AFC Rushden & Diamonds, from England, and, in his debut match, conceded four goals, fought with a fan of his own club and ended up being fired. All this in less than 24 hours.

Patching joined the Rushden town side on an emergency deal after their first-choice goalkeeper became unavailable. The match against LyeTown last Saturday, 16th, valid for Northern Premier Leagueseventh division of English football, marked the debut of the archer, who ended up conceding four goals in the clash.

Hours after the game, in a local bar, the goalkeeper ended up arguing with a fan irritated by his performance. The two came to blows and Patching headbutted the man. The following day, on Sunday the 17th, AFC Rushden & Diamonds published a statement announcing his dismissal. “AFC Rushden & Diamonds are aware of an incident in a bar involving a first-team player and a fan following the defeat to Lye Town. The player in question has had his registration with the club canceled with immediate effect and will not play for the club from now on.”they said.

Afterwards, Patching also released a public statement apologizing for what happened. “Firstly, I would like to apologize to the fans involved and to Rushden & Diamonds FC for the events that took place on Saturday night. I was disappointed with the result of the game, personally and for the club. After the game, a group of fans began hurling insults. One of them then directly confronted me, invading my personal space and shouting aggressively in my face. Genuinely fearing for my safety and with emotions running high, I reacted, which I deeply regret. This does not excuse my actions and I am disappointed in myself for losing control. Once again, I would like to apologize and wish the club/fans all the best in the future.”he stated.