Sidley storm over alleged headbutt

Geard was taken to the Conquest Hospital for X-Rays and needed 16 stitches following the attack.

The unnamed player could face criminal charges and a lengthy ban from the game after the police and the Sussex FA confirmed they were investigating the matter.

Ringmer chairman Richard Soan said: "I didn't witness the incident but I understand that one of the referee's assistants did and he will be filing an immediate report.

"It was good game of football with two competitive sides and I felt we played well. It wasn't a nasty game."

Sidley United did not wish to comment on the incident.

Sussex FA spokesman Nigel Williams said: "Until the chairman of the FA has seen the referee's report we can't really comment on the case.

"If it was an assault the player may be suspended until the hearing. "I don't know whether they would consider a life ban as the longest I've heard of from the Sussex FA was a five year ban."