CHESHAM United’s match with Redditch United was abandoned this afternoon after a Reds player punched the referee.

The game was called off shortly after the start of the second half when Redditch striker Josh McKenzie hit the referee after Chesham, who were leading 1-0 thanks to a James Potton goal, were awarded a penalty.

Redditch United have said this evening the player has already had his contract terminated and will never play for the club again.

Chesham chairman Alan Calder told the Bucks Free Press: "A player who was already on a yellow card gave away a penalty and got a red card. He went over, struck the referee who went down. He got up straight away and blew the full time whistle, which caused pandemonium.

"We were disappointed the game's been abandoned. He said he wasn't in the right state to carry on and abandoning the game was the best decision, which I can understand. The referee said after the game it wasn't right to carry on because it could have kicked off again."

Mr Calder said he was unsure whether the game would be replayed or if the result will stand but said: "The precedent suggests it will be replayed, which is harsh on us as we were 1-0 up and had a penalty against ten men.

"The players and manager are gutted."

McKenzie also allegedly damaged a dressing room and was seen leaving The Meadow ground in a police van. Thames Valley Police have this evening confirmed a man was arrested.

Had the result stood Chesham would have moved up to second in the table, a point behind leaders AFC Totton.