Match official knocked out in FA Cup game

A linesman in a grudge soccer derby was taken to hospital after being knocked unconscious by a coin hurled from the crowd today.

The all-Welsh FA Cup clash between Newport County and Swansea City descended into chaos after fourth official Alan Sheffield was stretchered off the pitch.

The ugly incident happened in the 32nd minute as the linesman signalled the referee after allegedly being verbally abused by county manager Peter Beadle.

As county's manager made his way to the stand, the linesman collapsed as he was truck by the missile.

He was then carried off the pitch and taken to a waiting ambulance while the match was halted for eight minutes.

Swansea City went on to win the first round tie 3-1.

Gwent police later issued a brief statement saying the clash was marred by a minority of trouble-making fans.

"A small minority of supporters attended with the sole intent of causing trouble and during the game an object was thrown from the stand and hit the fourth official who was knocked unconscious and taken to hospital," a Gwent police spokesman said.

Superintendent Nigel Russell added: "Towards the end of the match a large number of fans determined to cause a disturbance left the game early.

"Some public order occurred which was dealt with firmly and fairly by the police."

He added: "No-one else was injured by these events and the police will now investigate the evidence recorded to establish if any offences have been committed."

Gwent Police were unable to confirm that the incident with the linesman was under investigation.

A spokeswoman said: "No-one will say anything more until Monday."