A Welsh grassroots footballer has been arrested and subsequently released by his club after a video showing him apparently elbowing an opponent went viral, prompting a police investigation.
Shocking Incident Captured on Film
The incident occurred during an Ardal North West League match between Trearddur Bay FC and Porthmadog FC on Saturday, 17 January 2026. A video, which has since been viewed more than 10 million times online, appears to show Trearddur Bay player Tom Taylor, 35, delivering a brutal elbow strike to the jaw of an unsuspecting Porthmadog opponent just before a penalty was taken.
Fans and viewers expressed immediate outrage on social media, with many calling for Taylor to be banned for life and for police action. One widely shared post on X (formerly Twitter) described the act as "ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTING" and a "DISGRACE".
Police Investigation and Club Action
North Wales Police confirmed they are investigating the incident. In a statement released on Sunday, 18 January, they said: "Officers have been making enquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. As part of this investigation a 35-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault." The force appealed for information and asked the public not to speculate.
Trearddur Bay FC acted swiftly, first suspending Taylor. The club stated on social media that it "in no way condones the use of unlawful behaviour by its staff or players." Following an internal review and an Extraordinary General Meeting, the club then announced Taylor's release with immediate effect.
In a subsequent statement, the club offered "sincere apologies to the opposition player involved, CPD Porthmadog, match officials, supporters, and the wider football community," and pledged full cooperation with external investigations.
Football Authorities and Fallout
The Football Association of Wales (FAW) confirmed it is aware of the incident and will be reviewing it, as tier three matches fall under its jurisdiction. The player on the receiving end of the elbow is widely reported to be Danny Brookwell, with the incident said to have occurred in the 59th minute of the game.
The fallout has ignited a fierce debate about violence in grassroots sport. The viral nature of the video has placed significant pressure on both the authorities and the club involved to take decisive action. The case highlights how social media can rapidly amplify local incidents to a national audience, influencing outcomes.
As the police investigation continues, the football community awaits potential disciplinary proceedings from the FAW, which could result in a lengthy ban for the player involved.
