Portsmouth Ball Boy Injured by Pyrotechnic Device During Heated Derby Match
A 16-year-old ball boy serving at Portsmouth Football Club's Fratton Park ground has been left with significant hearing impairment in one ear following a dangerous incident during Sunday's intense south coast derby against Southampton. Hayden Rogers was positioned at the side of the pitch when a missile, believed to be a pyrotechnic device thrown from the stands, landed just feet away from him and exploded.
Immediate Medical Response and Ongoing Symptoms
Although Hayden was not struck directly by the object, the powerful blast caused immediate temporary hearing loss and triggered a severe headache that has persisted. The young ball boy received prompt medical attention from club medics at the stadium, who quickly ushered him away from the scene to assess his condition.
His mother, Jade Rogers, revealed to Daily Mail Sport on Monday that her son required further medical checks due to ongoing pain and discomfort. "He had to have further checks today because he was still struggling with pain and a headache," she explained. "We took him to see somebody today who said that unfortunately the injured ear is still really clouded which is preventing them from seeing the back of the ear drum to know if it's been perforated or not - but they suspect because he's not in excruciating pain that it hasn't."
Potential Long-Term Effects and Psychological Impact
While initial indications suggest there may be no permanent physical damage, medical professionals have warned that noise-related trauma of this nature can potentially lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Jade Rogers noted the clear psychological impact on her son, stating: "He struggled to sleep last night because he kept thinking about it."
Remarkably, despite the frightening experience, Hayden's dedication to his role remains undiminished. "Actually his priority, when he found out that I'd received a call (from the club) to check in on him, he said 'we've got a game on Saturday, am I still allowed to be a ball retriever?' So it's definitely not put him off which is great," his mother reported.
Additional Incidents and Club Response
The pyrotechnic explosion was not the only concerning incident during the heated match. Reports indicate that a 15-year-old boy was injured after a crutch was thrown in the stands, and broken seats were also hurled onto the pitch by spectators.
In response to these events, Portsmouth FC has issued a strong statement condemning the behaviour and outlining their investigation process. "The club are continuing to review CCTV footage from each of these various incidents and we appeal to anyone with any information to email us in confidence," the club stated.
The Football Association has formally warned Portsmouth FC regarding its future conduct, meaning any further breaches could result in significant penalties beyond just financial sanctions. "We will not tolerate any future such behaviour and any spectator(s) identified as having encroached onto the pitch or having thrown missiles, either on Sunday or at any future match, will be subject to a significant club sanction, as well as a potential criminal investigation and a football banning order," the club emphasized.
Community Support and Police Investigation
Following the distressing incidents, a GoFundMe page has been established to support both injured boys, prompting an outpouring of messages and donations from the Portsmouth football community. This demonstrates the solidarity within the fanbase despite the unacceptable actions of a minority.
Hampshire Police have confirmed they are actively investigating the incident involving the exploding pyrotechnic device. Five arrests have already been made in connection with various incidents during the match, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward.
Portsmouth FC concluded their statement by reaffirming their commitment to safety: "Portsmouth FC remain proud and grateful for the amazing support we receive both home and away. We remain totally committed to delivering a safe environment at Fratton Park for everyone. Players, match officials, staff and all supporters should feel entitled to this assurance, whatever the circumstances."
